ASINATE Serevi walked off the field for the final time yesterday with mixed emotions but her heart full.
The daughter of sevens legend Waisale Serevi ended her international career with the Vodafone Fijiana XV on the perfect note, a 28-25 victory over Wales at their final Rugby World Cup match.
“A lot of mixed emotions, but content. I’m grateful for this team, especially my family back home thank you for always being there for me.
“I kept reminding myself to end my career on a high note and that is what we did, beating Wales. I just want to thank Fiji Rugby and my coaches Senirusi Seruvakula, Inoke Male, Mosese Rauluni, Ifereimi Rawaqa, and Cunningham for giving me the opportunity to represent Fiji. And I thank God for blessing me with the talent to showcase,” Serevi said.
She said her family had been the backbone of her career.
“I wouldn’t be here without my family, so I’m grateful and happy to say that I’m retiring. I’m excited to see what this team will bring at the next World Cup.
“We keep building every year and every game, and we can take Fijiana XV to another level. Vinaka vakalevu to everyone at home and to my family,” Serevi added.
Her teammates paid tribute, with forward Jade Coates hailing her impact on and off the field.
“I’m so proud of her. It’s not easy when someone announces their retirement, but the time she’s had in the jersey she’s a double international for the USA and Fijiana. Not many people can do that, so I take my hat off to her.
“She’s a proud Fijiana girl and I hope us girls can keep playing to make her proud.”
