Emele Bola, the grandmother of FIJI Water Flying Fijians prop Eroni Mawi reminded him of his struggles and where he came from.

At the same time Mawi said the Flying Fijians were out to make a difference at the World Cup.

Speaking to Mawi on the eve of his departure for France on the weekend, the 78-year-old Bola said the family was grateful to the national selectors for picking Eroni for a second World Cup outing.

“I’m so happy, and I thank the Lord for his blessings on Eroni’s life and am very grateful for him being chosen to play for Fiji for the second time in the World Cup,” Bola said.

“I wish you all of my support today and pray that our Lord will guide you through whichever path you choose,” she told Mawi.

“Today’s game will never define who you are as an athlete; always remember where you came from and realise that you are far greater than the total of every win and loss that has ever come before.

“We want you to know that with every scrum you enter, every stride you take, and every national anthem you sing, we are proud of you and will be cheering you and the team on.”

The Saracens prop said it was always an honour to represent the country and would put forward his best.
“We have a good young team. I have faith that the coaches have picked the best to represent the country.

“Our main goal is to win the World Cup but we will take one game at a time.”

Mawi paid tribute to his father, Isireli Rokocama, who encouraged him as a child in Lautoka to attend camps while in school.

“Yeah he definitely did encourage me and he has always been supportive.

“As a kid growing up I’ve always wanted to wear the white jersey and play for the country and make my family and supporters proud.

He paid tribute to the many people who had encouraged and helped him along the way including his older brother Semi Mawi.

“I will always be thankful and indebted to them.”

Mawi said the team has prepared well and determined to make a difference at the World Cup while at the same time encouraging young ruggers to always thank God for their talents, work hard and always listen.
“That’s how you grow in rugby and in life,” Mawi said.

Story By: Charles Chambers

Feedback: charles.chambers@fijisun.com.fj