A family’s wish came true this week after their son Viliame Mata was called up to represent the national sevens team in the New Zealand 7s next week.
Speaking to Fijivillage from their Nadonumai home in Lami, Viliame’s mother Aliti Mata said her husband left two weeks ago for peacekeeping duties in Iraq.
Mata said after her son was named in the extended squad a few weeks ago, her husband Sitiveni Mata and Viliame would travel to Albert Park every morning and train there together.
Mata added her husband is a former Nadroga rugby rep but she told Viliame before he left for New Zealand today to do his best.
Viliame Mata played for the Gaunavou rugby club during the Great Eight 7s last year and that’s where national coach Ben Ryan spotted the 23-year-old.
Mata attended Assemblies of God Primary School before going to Suva Grammar School.
Mata left the country today as a replacement for the injured Pio Tuwai.
The New Zealand 7s will be held next weekend and Fiji will play New Zealand in the first pool match at 2:06pm next Friday.
Story by: Akuila Cama
Family’s wish comes true as Mata makes 7s team
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