Immanuel Naciva does not only love rugby for the sake of playing.

It means so much more for the 22-year old Naitasiri tight-head prop,

Rugby has helped him to see God and also brought his family closer.

The Waciwaci, Lakeba, Lau native, who has maternal links to Ono, Kadavu, also indicated that he has founded lifelong bonds with his teammates.

He is grateful to the Naitaisiri Rugby Union for accepting players like him who hail from other provinces.

And he would do his best to help Naitasiri reach the final of the Skipper Cup Premiership final next week when the Highlanders host Nadroga at Ratu Cakobau Park in the semifinal on Saturday.

“As for me, it’s Naitasiri. I’m thankful to the rugby powerhouse for accepting me and players from other provinces to play for the Highlanders,” Naciva said.

He was approached by former Fiji Under-20 and Naitasiri coach Koli Sewabu to play for Naitasiri in 2018.

Naciva has been one of the regular players this season in Coach Ilaitia Tuisese Jnr’s  match-23.

“This is my second year playing for Naitasiri and I’m thankful to be playing for this province,” he said.

“Naitasiri is a team that bond players together so well which is something I like most.

“Every moment I shared with the team is memorable, from the training, camp and to the field.

“Rugby is indeed life changing, it is not only about the game, it is also where your spiritual life is lifted to another level.

“It draws you closer to God and your family – with their support.

“It has been a wonderful journey with them this year. I have made new brothers along the way and the bond we shared I doubt I will find that in any other provincial team,” Naciva added.

The former Marist Brothers High School student, was part of the Under-18 team that lost to Queen Victoria School in the 2016 Deans Trophy final.

Naciva was also a member of the Fiji under 20 in 2018 and also part of the Fijian Warriors that lost to Japan during the World Rugby Pacific Challenge held in March this year.

And he looks forward to represent Fiji and secure a contract in the future.

“My personal goal is don the Flying Fijians jersey, it would the answer to my prayers.

“There have been no offers yet but I am praying and waiting for God’s time on me.”

Naciva hopes to do his best in the semifinal if selected.

Defending champions Suva will host Namosi in the second semifinal at the ANZ Stadium.

FIXTURES FOR SATURDAY

ANZ Stadium: U19: Nadroga v Suva; Women: Naitasiri v Suva;  Men: Suva v Namosi.

Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori

U19: Namosi v Nadi; Women: Lautoka v Tailevu; Men: Naitasiri v Nadroga.

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback:  sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj