“I wish my father was here to see my achievement.”
Those were the words of Jasa Veremalua who remembers his late father who inspired him to never give up on his dreams.
Born and raised in Korotogo, Nadroga, Veremalua never looked back since making his debut for the national side in 2013.
Veremalua who has become a renowned world class sevens player won the first ever DHL Impact Player Award last season.
Veremalua believes this is the best prepared team he’s been with and is excited to play in the Olympics.
28-year-old Veremalua was emotional when he looked back at his struggles and pain in trying to make the national team.
His selection in the final 12 to the Rio Olympics was expected as he continues his fine form.
Meanwhile, three former national sevens players playing in France are strongly showing their support to the Fiji 7s team by dying their hair and beard.
Waisea Nayacalevu and Josaia Wini have dyed their beard while Alipate Ratini has gone all out by dyeing his hair white.
Speaking to Fijivillage this morning, Josaia Wini who is playing for Stade Français said a nomination game is trending on social media for Fijian ruggers around the world to show their support in any way they can.
Nayacalevu on the other hand is back in France with Stade Français to prepare for the next season while Ratini has also joined them in the same club.
The Fijiana will take on USA in their first pool match at 4am this Sunday.
They play Australia at 9.30am Sunday and then take on Colombia at 4am Monday.
The Fiji men’s 7s side will take on Brazil in their first Rio Olympics pool game at 4.30am next Wednesday, they will then face Argentina at 9.30am before taking on USA at 4.30am next Thursday.
The quarterfinals will start at 8am next Thursday, the semis will start at 5.30am next Friday and the final will kick off at 10am next Friday.
The Rio Olympics opening ceremony will start at 11am this Saturday.
