Rabaka continues family tradition

Fiji Drua Junior Development flanker Epeli Rabaka is carrying on his family’s rugby tradition.

The Marist Brothers High School Year 13 student is the nephew of former Flying Fijians halfback Samisoni Rabaka and first five-eighth Tomasi Rabaka.

He played an instrumental role in the Drua’s 36-15 win over the Ba Under-17 side in the curtain-raiser at Govind Park, Ba, last Saturday.

Rabaka scored a try in the win. The Drua players reported to camp last Thursday, while continuing training with their respective school teams.

“From home, they just tell me to go forward, to carry the family name,” he said.

“To live up to the standard, to play for my family, play hard, train hard and try to make my name known.

“I’m following the rugby pathway of Drua Rugby since I joined the family.”

The Nakelo, Tailevu, native, who has maternal links to Burelevu, Ra, grew up watching his father Mateo, uncles and elder siblings involved in the sport.

His siblings include Savenaca, who is playing rugby in Otago, New Zealand; Isimeli, who plays for Marist Rugby Club; and Mateo, his father’s namesake, who plays for Suva rugby.

“Growing up, I used to go and watch the games. It inspired me to play rugby,” he said.

“Without them, I wouldn’t have been playing rugby by now. They are always correcting my wrongs, always being there, giving me skills, tips, and advice on what to do on the field.”

He has shifted his focus to assist the MBHS brigade in the Vodafone Deans Trophy competition.

Ba U17 coach David Wise said the match provided valuable exposure for a group of secondary school players who will compete in the Deans competition in the coming weeks.