NAVOSA rugby hitman Semi Kunatani departed the country yesterday to pursue his rugby career with the Top 14 French side Stade Toulousain.
The World Rugby Player of the Year nominee will join former national rep Timoci Matanavou at his new club.
FRU board member and Yamacia team official Jay Whyte said Kunatani would gain valuable lesson at his new rugby home and would return a much better player for the Rio Olympics.
Kunatani burst onto the international rugby scene in November 2013 after helping his Yamacia side win the Bayleys Fiji Coral Coast Sevens.
“Semi’s outstanding season, in which he was named to four tournament Dream Teams and finished third on the season’s top try scorers list, saw the interest in his signature intensify.
“After a glorious outing at the Las Vegas Sevens, many clubs started chasing him for his signature. Due to this level of interest, Semi took time to reflect on future plans.”
Whyte said Kunatani’s move was thoroughly considered by his coaches, family members and friends.
“After lengthy deliberations with Semi’s inner circle which included his manager, head coach and trusted family and friends Semi chose to continue his rugby career in France with a wonderful offer from Toulouse.”
“Semi told those around him that the focus for him personally still remained helping Fiji win its first Summer Olympic Gold in Rio next year and thanked Toulouse for acknowledging this as part of the conditions of his signature.
Kunatani also thanked all those that contributed to his rugby success.
“I wish to thank the Lord for his blessings and of course all my friends and family who have supported me over the years. I am here today because of the hard work and sacrifice made by not only me, but family and friends to help me reach this goal.
“I have to acknowledge my Yamacia brothers, management and of course the Fiji Sevens team, coach and management for their tremendous support in allowing me to chase this opportunity. I aim to make you all proud of me”.
He will be welcomed on his arrival to Toulouse by club president Jean-René Bouscatel and current Toulouse player Timoci Matanavou.
