Rugby can be a thrilling pursuit for many young men, offering not just camaraderie and competition, but also a potential escape from difficult circumstances. Adriu Nabose, hailing from Macuata with maternal connections to Cakaudrove, exemplifies this journey. While rugby has indeed opened various doors for him, it was ultimately his commitment to education that set him on a clear path in life.
Growing up in a village, Mr. Nabose relocated to Suva to further his education. He attended Nasinu Muslim College from Year 9 to Year 11, yet his dedication to rugby began to overshadow his academic commitments. “I started pursuing rugby and things were going really well,” he reflected, acknowledging early successes in the sport.
However, it was his parents’ encouragement that made him reevaluate his priorities and steer him back towards academia. This support proved invaluable as he chose to enroll in the Nabua Matua Programme two years ago, an initiative designed for school dropouts and working students seeking another opportunity.
Reintegrating into the school environment was not without its challenges. “I came here in 2024, and it was difficult studying with people who were more mature than me, and communication was tough initially,” Mr. Nabose shared. Over time, he adjusted to the academic rigors, finding the experience both challenging and rewarding.
His hard work paid off as he completed Year 12 and Year 13 with commendable results, crediting his achievements to his unwavering dedication and the support he received along the way. His story mirrors those of countless young men navigating the delicate balance between sports and education, often at the risk of prioritizing one over the other.
Having experienced injuries while competing against older players, Mr. Nabose understood the vulnerabilities of a sports career. “I realized that if I get injured now, my rugby career could be over. So I had to think outside the box. I needed a back-up,” he noted, prompting him to consider his long-term future.
Today, he has established a solid foundation for that safety net. Mr. Nabose has received a university offer and is eager to embark on tertiary studies in architecture, focusing on architectural drafting. “Drawing is one of my strengths. I enjoy art, and architecture fits well with that,” he expressed, illustrating his passion for the field. With robust family support, he is enthusiastic about pursuing this career while maintaining his rugby activities.
Determined to juggle both his studies and sports, he plans to utilize his days off from classes for training. For young men who may feel apprehensive about returning to school, especially those contemplating the Matua Programme yet grappling with self-doubt, Mr. Nabose has a motivating message: “It takes courage to come back and study. Matua gives you a second chance.” He emphasized the value of the program’s short three-hour classes, encouraging anyone willing to invest in their education to join.
While his journey was fraught with uncertainties at the beginning, Mr. Nabose has now positioned education at the forefront of his aspirations, committed to a future that transcends the rugby field. With determination and focus, he is actively building a positive future that harmonizes both his educational goals and his passion for sports.