Kele Lasaqa, a rising star in New Zealand’s All Blacks Sevens program, credits his swift progress to a combination of belief, dedication, and steadfast faith. As he aims for a place on the team for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, Lasaqa’s inspirational journey stands out. After being scouted late last year, he has quickly emerged as a significant player, participating in essential HSBC Sevens World Series events in Dubai and Cape Town.
Reflecting on his rugby career, the dynamic halfback stated, “I’ve been playing since I was young and kept progressing as I got older. At the end of last year, I got pulled in to join the squad, and everything’s moved pretty quickly from there.” For Lasaqa, representing the revered black jersey comes with both honor and responsibility. He encourages young athletes to stay dedicated and hopeful, asserting, “Stay in it, keep working hard, and trust that God’s got a plan. You never know where the journey can take you.”
Currently, Lasaqa is relishing the lively atmosphere of rugby back home, particularly during his recent tournament appearances. “It’s my first time back since 2010, so it’s really good to be here. It’s hot, but fun. The crowd’s been amazing — there’s so much vibe,” he shared.
Rugby runs in Lasaqa’s family; his brother Gideon also plays the sport, representing the Sydney Fijian team in the Coral Coast 7s. This familial support has been pivotal as he navigates the international rugby scene.
Looking ahead, Lasaqa is laser-focused on his aspirations. “I want to make the LA Olympics in 2028 — and I want to win,” he declared. Recently, he also joined the New Zealand Development team at the McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s, underscoring his commitment to the sport and his ambitions on the global stage.
With his promising trajectory, Kele Lasaqa exemplifies perseverance and determination, inspiring a new generation of rugby players to pursue their dreams in sports. His journey serves as a testament to the power of hard work and resilience in achieving great heights.