This Olympic gold medal is for my two-year-old daughter, says Team Fiji men’s rugby sevens forward Viliame Mata.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Mata could not hold back his emotions when he talked how his daughter had inspired him.

“After the team was announced and we broke camp as soon as I entered the room my two-year-old daughter Viniana was cheering me on, ‘go Ta (dad) go’,” he said.

Mata said her proud daughter’s voice was always echoing at the back of his mind and it inspired him to go the extra mile for the win.

“I did it for my daughter. I’m playing out there for my daughter, she means a lot to me.”

He also acknowledged the support of his wife, family members and friends.

The 24-year-old burly prop said, he was also grateful to head coach, Ben Ryan for having faith in him and trusting him to do the job.

“When the team announcement was done there were people talking about my selection. There were critics but I thank Ben and the management for having faith in me. There were other good forwards around like Nemani Nagusa, Pio Tuwai, Isake Katonibau and for me this is a memorable moment.”

Mata said he was also grateful to all Fijian fans for their endless support.

“At the same time I want to seek everyone’s forgiveness for some of my wrong doings on the field. If I have missed a few tackles or did not cause too many line breaks I’m sorry.”

The Tailevu native said he was blessed to have Pastor Tui Kolinisau around for their spiritual nourishment.

“Pastor Tui thank you for the scriptures that you shared with us and also your prayers for the team,” he added.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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