At just 19 years old, Tevita Vuniwaqa Ledua has emerged as a promising talent in the Malolo Rugby squad, showcasing a maturity that far exceeds his years. This Saturday, he will take center stage in the Skipper Cup final, where Malolo is set to challenge the experienced Naitasiri team in Suva, marking a crucial moment in local rugby.
Ledua’s rugby journey began at Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS), where his passion for the sport was ignited during his primary education and further developed through his high school years. Last year, he played for the RKS Deans team, facing a difficult quarter-final loss to Cuvu College, an experience that only strengthened his resolve to excel in rugby.
Now playing as a first five-eighth for Malolo, Ledua describes the transition to provincial rugby as a whole new challenge. He acknowledges the faster pace, increased physicality, and intensified pressure that come with competing at this level. “Skipper is a different ball game,” Ledua notes, expressing appreciation for the chance to improve his skills, especially after competing in the earlier Farebrother Challenge against top-tier teams.
Despite being one of the youngest in the squad, Ledua has quickly become an integral part of the Malolo backline, thanks to his confidence and thoughtful decision-making on the field. He credits his success to the support and guidance from senior players and coaches, stating, “The senior boys have been very supportive, encouraging me to stay focused and trust my game.”
As he gears up for the highly anticipated final against Naitasiri, a team he has long looked up to, Ledua experiences a mix of excitement and nervousness. “Naitasiri is a well-known team. When we were younger, we heard stories about their rugby legacy. Now, I’ll be playing against them in a final; it’s something special,” he reflects.
Representing not only Malolo but also the Nasigatoka Rugby Club, Ledua hopes that his journey serves as an inspiration for other young athletes across Fiji to pursue their dreams. “Malolo is a young team, but we believe in ourselves. For me, this is just the beginning,” he emphasizes, embodying a spirit of hope that resonates within the Fijian rugby community.
The excitement surrounding the Skipper Cup final highlights the emergence of talented young players in Fijian rugby, reminiscent of athletes like Ratu Aporosa Lalabalavu and Emosi Nuku, who are also achieving noteworthy success in their competitions. The aspirations and determination of these players reflect a bright future for rugby in Fiji, capturing the hearts of fans and inspiring future generations to excel on the field.