Flying Fijians centre Sireli Maqala took time out with the Macuata rugby side to inspire them for Saturday’s Skip­per Cup opening clash against Nadroga at Lawaqa Park in Siga­toka.

Although, the France-based cen­tre hails from Ra, he was born and raised in Labasa. He plays for Bayonne and is regarded the No.l centre in the French Top 14 compe­tition.

Maqala broke into the limelight when he made the Fiji men’s rug­by sevens team that won the gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games.

On Monday night, Maqala shared with the Macuata players about his upbringing in Labasa where he attended Bethel Primary School, Khalsa Primary School and All Saints Secondary School.

Maqala talked about the days they played barefoot on the ground at the Naodamu Housing and from that humble beginning he is now making his mark in the world of international rugby especially in Europe where is now based.

Maqala urged the Macuata play­ers that if he can do it, then there is nothing stopping them from achieving greater things in rugby.

He also spoke about the sacrifices, the struggles, and the victories that shaped his path.

The key takeaways from Maqala’s talk were powerful and clear;

■ Discipline is non-negotiable;

■ Listening to your parents lays the foundation;

■ Setting goals and working hard towards them is essen­tial;

■ Serving God wholeheartedly keeps everything aligned.

The MRU thanked Maqala’s dad Sisa and his elder brother Ilaitia for accepting their invitation.

“What you shared today has left a lasting mark on our players, and we truly believe that many of these young men will go far in their rug­by journey.

“It is our prayers that the Lord Al­mighty will continue to bless your family, and we wish Isireli Maqala all the very best in the upcoming Top 14 season,” stated the MRU.

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