Epeli Momo is eager to debut for the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in the upcoming Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
The Yaloku, Yakete, Ba native recently joined the Fijian Drua squad, making the transition from a three-year stint with the Montauban Pro D2 club in France.
Momo is grateful to be back in Fiji and this time joining Super Rugby.
He anticipates a distinct experience and a deep sense of pride donning the Drua jersey.
“I was watching the Drua team from France and while playing in France, I just wanted to come and wear the national jersey again. It’s a different feeling if you don the national jumper and represent your country with pride,” Momo said.
The 24-year-old rates the current training program as intense, emphasising the team’s commitment to securing a home quarter-final.
“Currently our level of preparation goes a level up every day, it’s different as we aim for a home quarter-final.”
Momo, who has maternal links to Sabeto, Nadi, appreciates the strong team bonding evident in the Drua camp.
He commends the welcoming atmosphere.
“I really like the team bonding in camp, the moment you enter the Drua base you don’t feel like a newcomer, you feel at home, very peaceful and we look after each other well,” Momo added.
Momo’s journey in rugby traces back to his early years at Sabeto District Primary School, followed by Sabeto College, where he commenced club rugby at the age of 16 in Korobebe Village, Sabeto.
His skills caught the attention of the Nadi rugby side in 2019, and by 2020, he was part of the Fiji U20 rugby team, earning a spot in the Fiji Warriors squad.
Beyond sports, Momo took on a role as a warden officer with Fiji Corrections Service in 2020.
During the same year, he ventured to France to pursue his rugby career before joining the Fijian Drua squad for the upcoming season.
“Our main aim now is to work hard and never disappoint our fans in the new season,” he said.
