Fracturing his right leg in 2019,  did not deter Filipe Sauturaga from working towards his dream.

The 25-year-old Wainimakutu, Namosi native was firm on his faith that he would make it for the national sevens side.

Sauturaga was named in Saiasi Fuli’s 15-member squad on Saturday night after the final of the Mobil Super 7s series.

Of the 15 players announced, 13 will travel for the Dubai 7s on November 26-27 after their medical screening.

“When I fractured my leg those close to me thought that was it and the end of my playing career,” Sauturaga said.

“I never lost hope and I kept on praying about it – God gave me this talent definitely He will heal me to allow me continue playing.

“I thank God for his mercy and faithfulness, He has brought me this far and I am honoured and grateful.”

Sauturaga, Terio Tamani, Waisea Nacuqu and Josefa Talacolo are part of the Rugby Sevens series champion Police Blue side.

Sauturaga is Tokyo Olympic gold medallist Iosefo Masi ‘s half brother. Their mother is from Waitabu, Taveuni, Cakaudrove.

He is older than Masi. He initially played for Tabadamu and in 2016 joined the Police side.

Sauturaga was awarded the Campese-Serevi medal for being the man of the match in the Cup final of the 2019 McDonald’s Fiji Coral Coast Sevens.

He was part of the extended squad that trained under former sevens coach, Gareth Baber the same year.

This year’s back to back Dubai 7s will be on November 26 -27 then on December 3-4.

Josua Vakurinabili will captain the side.

The 13-member side is expected to be announced today.

Feedback:  sereana.salalo@fijisun.com.fj