It has been a long time coming for John Stewart who will be making his Super Rugby debut with Japan’s  Sunwolves in the coming season.

The 27-year-old utility back got an early Christmas present when Sunwolves notified him on his inclusion.

“When I got the email, I honestly could not believe it and I was so excited,” Stewart said.

“I’m truly lucky to be a part of the Sunwolves because for me this has been a long time coming; I’ve been waiting for a big break like this in a long time.

“I want to thank John McKee for recommending me to the Sunwolves because they were looking for a utility player.”

Stewart was part of the Fijian Warriors team and also played for the Vodafone Fijian 7s team in the 2012-2013 World Sevens Series in Dubai and South Africa.

He also played provincial rugby for Lautoka, Naitasiri and Suva.

“It’s basically every player’s dream to secure a contract overseas and with that comes the drive to do better and prove your worth,” he said,

“I’m doing my own personal training and preparing myself mentally, physically and spiritually for this new journey.

“It will be a huge challenge because it is a new environment.

“It will definitely not be easy for the first couple of months but I am confident that I will adapt to the lifestyle and I am actually looking forward to a new start for 2016.”

Stewart will be accompanied by his wife Georgina.

“She is my strength and has supported me throughout my rugby career and I can accomplish anything because she is my motivator.

With the reality setting in of playing in such a prestigious competition, one where only a handful of Fijians participate in while the rest watch the live coverage on television, Stewart is hoping to gain a lot from the competition.

Stewart and Georgina will leave for Japan on January 25. He will team up with fellow Fijian Andrew Durutalo who plays for the United States in 7s and 15s.

– Super Rugby kick-off on February 26;

– Sunwolves play its historic first game against the Lions on February 27 in Tokyo.;

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback:  justine.mannan@fijisun.com.fj