“We understand that it’s a hard time going on in Fiji right now, relating with drugs and all that but we just want to be a positive role model in the public to the kids looking up to us.
Josaia Naulumatua Lovodua.
Josaia Naulumatua Lovodua hopes that the Vodafone Fiji Bati reps are great role models for children in Fiji amid the rise in drug use cases.
Commonly known as Joe Lovodua, the 26-year-old is making his return to the side after missing out in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup due to injury.
Lovodua hails from Vabea, Ono, Kadavu and shares maternal links to Naivucini in Naitasiri.
He said that the best thing about being back in Fiji after more than six years was reuniting with his relatives. He also applauded the programmes for the team in particular the community visits and seeing their families in person.
“The best thing is just seeing all the people and putting a smile on everyone’s face,” he said.
“We understand that it’s a hard time going on in Fiji right now, relating with drugs and all that but we just want to be a positive role model in the public to the kids looking up to us.
“It’s good to be back into the Fiji Bati camp after such a long time.”
With the number of younger players in the squad, Lovodua said the future of the Bati is a promising one and he is grateful to be selected among them.
He hopes that he will make the team for the next World Cup.
“It’s always an ambition and goal of mine to be available to be selected in the World Cup team,” Lovodua said.
“We always do so well in the World Cup, we’re always underestimated, amongst the other nations. I think the board and the team they want to aim higher, they want to make the finals, not just the team that make up the numbers. We want to keep improving.”
Asked of his thoughts against the Cook Islands Aitu, he said that they’re a tough team.
“There’s a lot of pride and a lot of passion in the game so each side wants to play their best footy for their nation. We’re all proud of where we come from, where our parents have.
“I think the boys have learnt their lessons from the previous game against PNG and when we’ve got another good training session in and I think we’re trying to right some wrongs on the weekend.” Lovodua currently plays for the Doncaster rugby league club in England.
Feedback: sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj
