Nabura Learning From Highlanders Stars
When a door closes, another one opens. This has been the learning of young Fijian Pulse Energy Highlander winger, Tevita Nabura.
The lad who has roots in Naitasiri and Nadroga, Nabura is one of the two Fijian players in the Pulse Energy Highlanders team (the other being All Black, Waisake Naholo).
Whilst studying at the Fiji National University in 2016, Nabura made the decision to take a break from his studies and focus on rugby.
“I was playing rugby and made it to a rugby league team in the West where I got dropped”
With an under- 20s team where Nabura was also got dropped.
“After those experiences I realised that I had some opportunities and I believe that when doors close, others will open,” Nabura said.
He went on to play in New Zealand for a short six-month stint where he returned to Fiji he then returned to New Zealand in 2017.
It was last year when Nabura got an opportunity to play for Counties Manukau in the Mitre 10 and then signed on with the Highlanders for the 2018 season.
“It’s been a good opportunity and I’m really proud of making it into Super Rugby. I think they (Highlanders) just want to keep the Fijian culture in the team because they also don’t want Waisake (Naholo) to be alone,” he said.
Nabura said that his focus now was getting more game time in the Super Rugby competition and when the opportunity arises to play on an international stage, he would be ready to grab the opportunity with both hands.
“I’m still learning from Waisake and Ben Smith in the back and asking questions on things I’m not clear of and I’m really trying to be better every day so I can be like them,” he added.
Nabura who was cited for foul play and banned for six weeks of rugby has so far, learned to keep moving forward despite the tough decisions made.
“Our coach has just told me to keep going forward and only take the good things and leave the bad things out,” he added.
Nabura has made three appearances for the Highlanders this year and eight appearances for Counties Manukau last year.
–Fiji Sports Council
Feedback: leonec@fijisun.com.fj
