From Water Boy to Chasing Sevens Dream

Sione Soqotu (pictured) started off as a water boy and watched Tabadamu sevens players train and play from the sidelines.

The 24-year-old farmer from Nalalawa, Ra is enthusiastic about the opportunity to be part of the McDonald's Coral Coast sevens at Lawaka Park from January 18-20.

"Back in the village, my cousin told me to train with the Tabadamu team, so I joined. I would head back to the village after the completion of training," Soqotu said.

"At first, I would only fetch water for the players and watch them play. Watching my teammates play from the sidelines fueled my eagerness to play alongside them."

He has been training with the team at Albert Park, Suva the past two weeks.

Soqotu was given a chance to play last year and has enjoyed every moment featuring for the Tabadamu team.

"I've been playing rugby for three years and it is my second year playing sevens," he said.

"I believe that I have the potential to get a career out of rugby and by playing the sport I have travelled throughout the nation."

Like every other Fijian playing rugby, Soqotu shared that his personal target is to join the Fiji Airways national sevens team.

"I am anxious to represent the Tabadamu team in the upcoming Coral Coast sevens tournament," he said.

"I often look up to Osea Kolinisau for inspiration because he was a good player who maintained discipline throughout his sevens career."

Soqotu appreciated the opportunity to have sevens wizard, Waisale Serevi, assisting in training the team.

"We learnt a lot from Waisale Serevi and we're happy that he has taken his time to assist us in training," he said.

Soqotu said he would need to improve on his passing and support play.

"Our biggest strength is our high level of stamina," he said.

"And I believe the team will have a good outing in the Coral coast tournament."

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