Melbourne Rebels Locks, Smith Eyes Flying Fijian Spot

Melbourne Rebels locks and former Fiji U20 lock forward Angelo Smith is no different from any other professional rugby player – he wants to don the Flying Fijian jersey.

The former Marist Brothers High School and Lautoka-born Ange as he is commonly known spent a day at the Sugar City yesterday after the Rebels team’s eight-day Japan tour against the Hanazono Kintetsu Liners XV at Osaka.

Smith, 23 said watching the FIJI Water Flying Fijians at the 2023 RWC has motivated him.

“That’s the goal to represent Fiji one day,” Smith said while visiting his former school St Thomas High School yesterday.

“Hopefully that comes along the line. It is all about learning and improving the game and playing alongside big names.

“The next World Cup is in Australia, competition for the Flying Fijians jersey will be tough. I will be building up to that.”

Smith praised the Simon Raiwalui-coached Flying Fijians for their Rugby World Cup achievement including the 30-24 loss to England in the quarter-final.

Melbourne Rebels locks Angelo Smith with students of his former school, St Thomas High School in Lautoka on October 19, 2023. Photo: Waisea Nasokia

“It was a grand journey for the team, they played well, and they certainly raised the standard for the rest to follow,” he said.

Meanwhile he is looking forward to another season of Super Rugby in 2024 with the Rebels.

“It is so good to be home and spend time with my family and friends.”

Smith is scheduled to return to his club next week.

While at STHS he recognised the need for the school to also play in the secondary schools rugby league competition.

Assistant principal Shabana Nazim recalled teaching him, as he was a character.

“I knew that he had great potential in doing something great,” Nazim said.

“I am proud of how he has achieved so much, the other teachers are sharing the same sentiments of one of our promising past students.

“His visit has boosted the morale of the Year 12 and Year 13 students who are sitting for their annual exams at the end of this year.”

Story by: Waisea Nasokia - waisean@fijisun.com.fj