Waisale Natuna (INSET) is hopeful he would be in France in time to see his son and Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu, lead his brigade against Georgia on Sunday, October 1.

Natuna had lodged his application (visa) through the French embassy’s recommended agent early this month but their office in Singapore has its system down.

“My son wanted me and a nephew to go over and watch the Rugby World Cup but because of the Singapore issue we have missed two games now,” Natuna said.

“I had checked again last week, and they said it would take three weeks. I was really hoping to watch their game against Australia early this morning (yesterday).

“I am hoping that now that Fiji has beaten Wallabies, I can get a visa on time for their third game.” Lights at all houses at Sadro Village in Deuba, Serua, were on while villagers stayed up all night to watch Gone ni Nasereci (Child of Nazareth), Nayacalevu led the Fijians to their first win against the Wallabies after 69 years.

“I was in Class Three here at Deuba Fijian School when Fiji defeated the British Lions in 1977, Fiji has been losing to Wallabies even before I was born,” he said.

“To have your son captain of the side that finally beaten Australia is humbling, I am thankful to God and to everyone who has played a part in his upbringing, nurturing and mentoring for him achieve what he has as a professional rugby player.

“Today (yesterday) families, friends, colleagues and even every living thing are rejoicing, I just praise God.

Flying Fijians captain, Waisea Nayacalevu.

“He (Nayacalevu) was a typical Fijian boy who as a young boy would form a rugby ball using old newspaper and cellotape otherwise a very matured coconut that does not have any fluid making it light and easy to catchand pass.

“I had filled his British Army form but did not send it because he was part of the initial Uprising Sevens team that toured Europe including Rome.”

Nayacalevu and his younger brother, Avinisi Vasuinubu, played for Melbourne Storms; called up again by Renne (Uprising director) to play in the Marist Sevens.

They were picked for the Hong Kong sevens which Fiji won the title.

It was through Renne that they secured contracts in France. Nacayalevu, according to Natuna, is always referred to as ‘Gone ni Nasareci’ for his giving and caring heart and attitude.

Growing up despite the hardships and struggles he is one who is always sharing, helping, and caring for others.

“He was here in June; he would jot down every widow’s name buy their groceries and give them money.

“He bought sets of rugby jerseys, warm up vests, socks, balls for his school DSS.

“That is typical him, he replaced our new seats for church (Methodist) which had cost him $10,000.

“He was an active member of the Mataveitokani (Youth) and up today still supports them morally and financially.

“With the rugby ball, we are now living in this fully furnished fourbedroom house which includes a master bedroom, a three-storey house, which my older children, siblings, and mother live in.

“Even his mother gets the same perks and we both have cars also.”

“Thanks to the internet, I was able to wish him luck before their game this morning, he replied “Vinaka vava (dad) with pray emojis.

“I have also congratulated him, and he has said again, ‘Vinaka vava’.”

Story by: karalaini.waqanidrola@fijisun.com.fj