Marist Brothers High School student Ratu Aporosa Lalabalavu has described his inclusion into the national under 20 rugby squad an opportunity of a lifetime.
The speedster who hails from Cuvu in Nadroga said he had always dreamt of donning the ‘white jersey’ and being called to join the training squad is a step towards the realisation of his dream.
“Like most of young Fijian boys, I love the sport of rugby and I am so happy to be included in the national side that is preparing for the Oceania U20 rugby championship and I will work hard to earn my place and won’t let the coaches down.”
Lalabalavu had his first training run with the national side last week before he left with the MBHS U18 side on their tour of New Zealand last Saturday and will be back before the U20 tournament begins.
National U20 head coach Senirusi Seruvakula said the inclusion of Lalabalavu was part of a development plan he had in place.
“Abo (Lalabalavu) has skills we have been searching for and is displaying depth in the game. He is not the only one we’ve brought in, there is three of them from the secondary schools teams and they are part of the plan to develop leaders and exceptional players preparing them for senior roles like the Flying Fijians.”
The Oceania U20 Rugby Championship will take place from May 26th to June 11th at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
