Success on the rugby field comes from more than just talent, it takes time, commitment and a clear plan.
Former Flying Fijian hooker Viliame Gadolo knows this well as he watches the current team prepare for a number of crucial Test matches.
Gadolo was part of the Flying Fijians from 2000 to 2007 and made his debut against Japan during the Epson Cup in 2000.
“Very excited to be selected into the Flying Fijians with the former Wallabies coach Greg Smith we came out of the Fiji under-20 and Fiji under-23 concepts,” Gadolo said.
The 2000 Flying Fijians team included Joeli Veitayaki, Peniasi Damu and Isaia Rasila in the front, Emori Katalau and Simon Raiwalui at locks, Alivereti Doviverata, Inoke Male and Sailosi Naiteqe in the backrow.
Mosese Rauluni played halfback, Nicky Little at first, Sirilo Lala at second, Kameli Tilalata at centre, Manueli Tiko and Alipate Naqaya on the wings and Jonetani Waqa at fullback.
Gadolo had many memorable moments during his rugby career, including playing in two Rugby World Cups and forging lifelong friendships.
“A lot of memorable ones with teammates that have become friends for life. 2007 was a special team. 21 caps for Fiji,” he said.
Gadolo’s rugby journey started early, he played for Suva in the Digicel Cup since 1999, with a year at Nadroga.
He was part of the Fiji U21 team that beat the Australia U19s in 1999.
He also captained Suva to the semi-finals of the 2004 Digicel Cup and played for the Suva Highlanders in the Colonial Cup.
Commonly known as Bill, Gadolo represented Fiji in the 2003 and 2007 Rugby World Cups and played overseas, winning the German Rugby championship in 2008 with SC 1880 Frankfurt.
In 2014 he was appointed as one of FRU’s national rugby selectors and also achieved and IRB’s Educator License.
The former Suva Grammar schoolteacher played 37 games and earned 20 Test caps whilst playing for Fiji.
In 2015, Gadolo began a new chapter as he was appointed the head coach of the Fijian under-20 side.
He served as the Flying Fijians team manager at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.
Gadolo now serves as the Elite Pathways and Performance manager for the Fiji Rugby Football Union Trust Board.
