Twenty-three-year-old Apete Narogo from Nakorovou, Serua, has earned his place in the Fiji Airways Men’s National 7s squad, marking a significant achievement for the budding rugby star ahead of the HSBC SVNS Dubai 7s. His selection, announced by head coach Osea Kolinisau, showcases a mixture of experienced players and promising newcomers, with Narogo being a standout name from Semi Radradra’s Ubuntu team.
Narogo has been striving for this opportunity since earlier in the year, competing against fellow athletes including Isikeli Basiyalo and fly-half Aisea Nawai. Reflecting on his journey, Narogo expressed his gratitude for the chance to sport Fiji’s iconic white jersey, stating, “It was a blessing from God that I have been called up to join the Fiji 7s squad. Every Fijian boy dreams of wearing the white jersey and representing the country; this is a blessed opportunity for me.”
His rugby journey commenced post-school in Form 7 at Lomary Secondary School, where he often prioritized rugby competitions over academics. He began with the Dominion Brothers rugby team and progressed through various levels of competition.
Narogo is set to join seasoned players such as Terio Tamani, Pilipo Bukayaro, and Joseva Talacolo on the field, providing a balance of experience and skill. The team is gearing up for its first match against Argentina on November 29 at 9:10 PM, with subsequent matches against South Africa and France.
The selection of Narogo and his teammates foreshadows a renewal of hopes for Fijian rugby, as they prepare to compete on an international stage. Fans are optimistic that the combination of fresh talent and veteran presence will lead to noteworthy performances, further solidifying Fiji’s legacy in the sport. As they prepare to depart for Dubai, the anticipation surrounding the team’s journey is palpable, highlighting both the individual aspirations of players like Narogo and the collective ambition of the team.