DESPITE not being selected for the final squad to the Rugby World Cup, Taniela Koroi has not let that stop him from pursuing a career in the sport and one day wearing the white jersey again.
The prop was part of the Pacific Nations team that defeated Samoa to claim the regional title and has become another Fijian rugger to join an overseas club.
Koroi joined Italian club Mogliano that plays in the Eccelenza Cup, the Italian Super 10.
Having had experience playing in the ITM Cup in New Zealand, he said, he has not regretted his decision to move to Italy.
“I am very pleased to join the club here in Italy because it’s been a goal of mine to head overseas while I’m still young,” he said.
“I know it’s hard coming from ITM cup and you would think I would play ITM again after not making the world cup squad but it’s an opportunity for me to play in Italy and I would never turn it down.”
The Nabukelevu, Nasau, Kadavu native said while he wished he had more time on the field to be able to prove his potential to selectors, he is not deterred from his goal.
“The location was a bonus too. Living right next to Venice where people dream to go there so it made me happy as well.
“My family have really been supportive of my decision. I know we will benefit from this as well especially financial wise,” he said.
“I was part of the 2015 PNC squad this year that won and it was awesome representing my country and winning the championship but I wished I got more opportunity on the field to prove myself to the coaches but that’s life sometimes.
“Rugby World Cup will always be a goal of mine. It was disappointing not making the final squad but I’m humbled and positive that this will make me a mature rugby player. God has other plans for me right now so I have to follow it. I would always love to represent Fiji. It’s in my blood to wear the white jersey again. I would never walk away from it.”
