LELEAN Memorial School fullback Ratu Apenisa Nayalatabua Navikutu is open to considering an overseas rugby contract if the opportunity arises after his outstanding performance in the Eastern Zone Secondary Schools Under-18 Dean’s final.
Navikutu made the comments after being asked whether he would consider moving overseas if the Fijian Drua did not offer him a contract.
The man-of-the-match was instrumental in LMS’s 29-17 victory over Ratu Kadavulevu School on Saturday, producing a near-perfect performance with the boot – converting eight penalties – while directing play from the back.
“If an opportunity comes, whether it’s in Fiji or overseas, I’ll sit down with my family and carefully consider all the options before making a decision on what’s best for my future,” he said.
Navikutu admitted he did not expect to finish the final with eight successful penalty goals.
“I honestly didn’t expect to kick that many penalties. During the game I just shut out all the noise, focused on each kick and made sure I got the ball over,” he said.
His accurate kicking proved decisive, stretching LMS’s lead to 18-5 at halftime with another penalty on the stroke of the break.
However, the talented fullback’s influence extended beyond his goal-kicking.
He orchestrated LMS’s attacking structure, organised the defensive line and produced three try-saving tackles to deny RKS during its second-half fightback.
His all-round display has prompted calls from rugby followers for the Fijian Drua to monitor the emerging playmaker closely before overseas clubs secure his services.
Navikutu’s rise has been rapid. He joined LMS this year after transferring from Nakasi High School.
Before arriving at LMS, he played senior division club rugby for Lokia village in Rewa, an experience he credited with preparing him for this year’s schools campaign.
“I’m grateful to Lelean Memorial School for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to showcase my rugby,” he said.
Originally from Navolau, Rakiraki, Ra, with maternal links to Lokia in Rewa, Navikutu has emerged as one of the standout performers of this year’s Eastern Zone competition.
Following his man-of-the-match display, his rugby future appears brighter than ever.
