A FATHER’S wish for just one try became twice the celebration after Ratu Kadavulevu School under-16 prop Kanimea Karena crossed the line twice to inspire his side to a 24-15 win over Queen Victoria School in the Eastern Zone Secondary Schools Dean’s under-16 final last Saturday at the HFC BANK Stadium in Suva.
Earlier in the week, the young front-rower had asked his father for a new pair of rugby boots.
His father agreed, but with one request.
“He told me to score a try with the new boots,” Karena said.
The impact substitute did far more than that.
Introduced as part of RKS’ powerful second-half “bomb squad”, Karena crashed over for the final two tries that shut the door on a determined QVS comeback and secured the eastern title for the Lodonians.
The double capped a memorable afternoon for the youngster from Tabewa Village on Rabi Island, who proudly carried the hopes of his family and the Banaban community onto one of Fiji’s biggest school rugby stages.
Karena’s rugby journey began at Banaban Primary School before attending Rabi High School in Year 9.
He transferred to RKS last year in search of a bigger challenge and has quickly developed into a damaging front-row forward.
Despite his massive frame, Karena prides himself on his mobility around the field.
He also enjoys the physical battles that come with playing in the front row, where every scrum, carry and tackle is a test of strength and character.
Despite his match-winning contribution, the modest prop admitted he never imagined he would finish the final with two tries.
“I was just happy to help the team and do my part in securing the win,” he said.
“I didn’t expect to score a try, let alone two.”
The youngster said the Eastern Zone title was only the beginning.
With the national playoffs around the corner, he hopes to make the same impact if called upon from the bench.
Karena also dreams of one day pulling on Fiji’s famous white jumper.
“I want to keep working hard and hopefully one day represent Fiji.”
If that dream becomes reality, he would follow in the footsteps of Henry Spring, the last player of Rabian heritage to wear the Flying Fijians jersey during the 2021 Autumn Tour.
For now, Karena’s focus remains on helping RKS chase national honours.
And every time he laces up those new boots, he will remember the simple challenge from his father that inspired one unforgettable performance.
