The elders of Votua Village in Ba yesterday gave their blessings on Team Fiji men’s rugby sevens winger Josua Tuisova as he leaves tomorrow for the Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

In a moving ceremony as the villagers gathered to farewell Tuisova, his brother Pio Tuwai joined in and wished the Ben Ryan-coached side well in their Olympic campaign.

The event started with a special dedication ceremony followed by a traditional isevusevu at the village hall, which was witnessed by the villagers.

Tuisova’s father, Sikeli Ratulevu, said his son had always been the pride of his village.

“I’m a very proud father,” he said.

“I believe in my son’s dream as the day goes he always keep achieving his goals. The villagers have blessed my son and will continue to cheer for Team Fiji as they are on their road to win the gold medal in Rio.”

Village headman, Simione Navara, said the moment would always be cherished by the villagers of Votua as their son is not only going to represent their village but Fiji as a whole on a very big platform.

“His selection is a big celebration for us. We are honoured to say Tuisova is our son and it is passion for rugby that has brought him this far. He will make every Fijians proud at the game we all love and we in Votua are always proud of him.”

Tuisova said he was humbled by the love and support he received from his village and this was his chance to make them all proud.

“We are one family. I love every moment I spend in my village and I have been humbled,” the Toulon rugby winger said.

 Edited by Naisa Koroi

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