Medal Recipient Colatanavanua on Right Path

Dominion Brothers sevens rep Inia Colatanavanua is looking for greater things in life, especially through rugby.

The former Ratu Kadavulevu School 2019 Deans trophy rep took out the Lote Tuqiri Medal (rising star) after his side’s 17-10 victory over Fiji Babaas in the Youth final of the McDonald’s Fiji’s Coral Coast Sevens at the Lawaqa Park, Sigatoka on Saturday.

The Nukubolu, Cakaudrove native after dropping out of school at Year 12, focussed on rugby with the intention to making it big in the sport.

“As a player, this is all I have, I look forward to the bigger things by offering and putting what my talents possess,” Colatanavanua said.

“This is another great avenue to play with the top teams in the country and those from overseas. It just improves your resume.

“I thank the organisers for giving me this award. It will go a long way, no doubt those who got this from here have gone to do bigger things.

“Nothing is going to deter me from my plans now.”

He thanked his club and teammates for assisting him get the award.

Fiji Babaas 7s rover Sivaniolo Lumelume was awarded the top try scorer after touching down seven tries.

The Tavea, Lomaiviti native said despite the loss he was proud of his achievement.

The former Nasinu Secondary School Year 13 student cemented his rugby mind while in school.

“I have been part of the Fiji Rugby system for some time now,” Lumelume said.

“I did play for the Fiji Schoolboys in 2020 where I played centre,”

McDonald’s Fiji managing director Marc McElrath said, “Fiji’s biggest and best sevens, another great event.

“Congratulations to Jay White and the team for another world-class event.

This will one day be the Hong Kong sevens in Fiji.”

Other awards:

In the men’s category, McDonald’s Saunaka’s Petero Ratumaitavuki and Akuila Momo scooped the Campese-Serevu medal and Best Player, respectively.

In the women’s category, Milika Drugunavanua (Ezra) was awarded the top try scorer with eight tries while the Rusila Nagasau medal went to Matakesi (NZ)

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