England-based player Simon Koroiyadi is excited to join the Fiji Under-20 Rugby team for the World Rugby U20 Championship in South Africa this month.
Originally from Lomaiviti, the 20-year-old was inspired by his father, Maku, who once captained the Fiji Under-18 side.
Koroiyadi is adjusting well to the Fijian style of rugby, which he finds to be fast paced compared with what he is used to in the UK.
“Adjusting to the Fijian style of rugby has been a challenge especially coming from England where the game is played at a slower pace,” said Koroiyadi.
“However, I am enjoying the fast-paced training sessions and the camaraderie within the team.
“The weather here is a big change from the cold climate I’m used to in England, but I’m embracing the heat and giving it my all on the field. Having always dreamed of representing Fiji, Koroiyadi aims to make his parents and his country proud.
“Playing for Fiji has always been a goal of mine, especially knowing that my father once represented the country in the Under 20s.
“I watched the Fiji U20 side perform brilliantly last year, and it also fuelled my desire to follow in their footsteps and make my family and country proud.”
The Fiji U20 side is currently in the second phase of their preparations, with the final squad set to be announced soon.
The team will head to Cape Town on the 24th of next month, ready to take on South Africa in their opening match on June 28.
