Lovoni, Ovalau native Motukai Murray comes from a village synonymous with producing champion boxers such as Sakaraia Ve, Sivinia Koroi and Jale Ligavai.
Murray is doing his share in promoting his village through rugby.
He is part of the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua side preparing for the second match against Manuma Samoa in the Fiji Rugby Invitational Series which started last week.
Fiji won the first match 60-10.
Murray gets his inspiration from his policeman and rugby player brother Philip.
They are products of Ratu Kadavulevu School.
“I come from Lovoni, Ovalau and have maternal link at Nukuni, Ono-i-Lau,” Motukai said.
“I started at Ovalau, went across to Ratu Kadavulevu School from 2018 until last year, joined the Fiji under-20 this year and suddenly I have been told to step up and join the Fijian Warriors.”
Like a college freshman, the 19-year-old said his rugby journey had not been easy.
“It is a great achievement and experience to come through the system to the under-20 even though I faced challenges. I have learned a lot through training and making bonds in the team. It has not been easy for me, especially coming as a village boy.”
The young flanker is learning the tricks of the game, especially from the side of scrums from his former Flying Fijians captain and looseman-cum-coach, Kele Leawere.
Murray, fresh out of school last year halted tertiary studies this year to chase his rugby dream.
“Choosing rugby is part of my dream. I always get motivated watching the Flying Fijians and always say to myself that ‘one day I will wear that jersey,’ and here I am now.
“My target is to reach the Flying Fijians.”
He won the accolades of his coach who said Super Rugby and the Flying Fijians colour were hot prospects for the Lovoni rugger.
