TO Tai Salote with love.
These are the words of Japan 7s flyer Jone Naikabula as he dedicated his rugby accomplishment to his grandmother back in his village in Vagadra, Nadroga.
He said his grandmother would be proudly watching him on TV in Nadroga.
Naikabula said he was raised up by his grandmother.ss.
He also thanked his parents and his loved ones in Fiji for supporting his rugby career.
“I want to dedicate my rugby achievement to Tai Salote back home in Fiji,” said Naikabula.
“She was the one that raised me up since my primary school days and without her guidance I don’t think I will be here today.
“I know she will be happy and emotional watching me in my first two world rugby 7s tournaments.
“I also thanked my parents and loved ones back home for their support.”
He said he was motivated by his loved ones to pursue his rugby career.
Naikabula said his childhood dream was to represent the country. After completing his studies at Swami Vivekananda, he pursued his education in New Zealand before securing a spot at a university in Japan.
“I only represented my school and village rugby team back home and I didn’t dream to be in the Japan team.
“I started to take rugby seriously while in New Zealand and it helped me developed my skills. I also played rugby in Japan and early this year I was approached to attend the trials for the Japan 7s team.”
The former Swami Vivekananda College student said he did not imagine representing another country and thanked the Almighty Lord for his blessing.
“Just like all other young Fijians playing rugby, my aim is to represent Fiji. But I believe the Lord has other plans for me which I am grateful of. I am proud to be the one of the world’s best 7s players,” said Naikabula.
Naikabula said he was proud to fly the Fiji flag in the Japanese team joining Paula Nawalu, Lote Tuqiri, Kameli Soejima who have represented Japan.
