Vodafone Fiji Bati captain Tui Kamikamica has expressed that leading his national team is one of the most emotional and humbling honors of his life. The Melbourne Storm forward reflected on his journey from a young boy with dreams of playing for Fiji to standing at the helm of the national side, a position he cherishes deeply. “Being selected as a captain is always an honor for me, especially growing up in Fiji. I never imagined I would one day be the captain, but it has been an incredible experience,” he stated.
For Kamikamica, representing Fiji is infused with a sense of identity and pride that drives him to give everything on the field. He acknowledges the struggles many young athletes back home face and uses these memories as motivation. “It makes me feel emotional because it reminds me of the way of living back home,” he noted, emphasizing that this connection inspires him to strive for excellence.
As he prepares for an upcoming match against the Cook Islands, Kamikamica sees his role as pivotal not only in leading the team but also in inspiring the next generation of players to follow their aspirations. He recognizes the importance of youth within the squad and reflects on the parallels with his early days as a rookie. “It’s funny because I’m pretty much the old guy here in the team now, but seeing the new faces reminds me of my starting days,” he shared, adding that this campaign is especially significant for him.
This Saturday at 5 PM, Kamikamica will lead the Fiji Bati in their opening match of the Pacific Bowl Championship in Papua New Guinea, an event that will be broadcast live on FBC Sports. The Bati aims to perform strongly in this tournament, leveraging the experience of players like Kamikamica to guide and inspire the team while fostering a sense of community and resilience.
Kamikamica’s journey and leadership encapsulate the hope and promise for the future of Fijian rugby, as they look to not just compete but also to build a foundation for the next generation of players. The spirit of unity within the team offers optimism for a successful championship run and beyond.