GOING from a small, rural village in Naiwairuku, Ra, to play rugby in Toulouse, France, has admittedly been a huge challenge for lanky Stade Toulousain winger Timoci Matanavou.
However, home is never far from Matanavou’s heart as the Ra lad is staying positive about donning the national jumper come the Rugby World Cup next year.
Considered one of the standout players in the French Top 14 Competition, Matanavou said every Fijian player dreamed of playing for Fiji when the time came.
“We all know that the Rugby World Cup is coming and I’m thrilled and I really want to play,” he said.
“I am just trying to work out what I can do to play for the world cup.”
Spectacularly nestled into the high life of France, Matanavou is a cherished member of the club, with international capped players such as Thierry Dusautoir and Chiliboy Ralepelle speaking very highly of his contributions to Stade Toulousain.
“The first year that I was in Toulouse, it was like a shock because I had been watching some of the players, like Dusautoir, on the TV so training and spending time with them, I feel really proud and happy that my dream has been realised.
“Toulouse is my home away from home. I have known the boys, staff and the people who work at the club for years.”
According to Matanavou, many rugby boys were also looking forward to visiting Fiji one day.
“The boys always ask me how games in Fiji are played. Before last year, we were playing in Hong Kong and I told them its 9 to 10 hours from Hong Kong to Fiji.
“The question of playing in Fiji was brought up. So at the same time, we are trying to work out with partners and sponsors so that they can help us to get from here to Fiji.
“It’s a long way and it will be the whole group coming to Fiji if we do come.
“I think the connection between Fiji Airways with Airbus and ATR are good as they are the two big sponsors of the club.
“If Fiji Airways worked with them, it would be great for the club if we wanted to come over.”
