Waidilo eyes debut

Former Fiji Warriors player Alipate Waidilo is putting in the hard yards to find his rhythm with the extended Fiji Airways men’s sevens squad. 

They are part of today’s McDonald’s Coral Coast Fiji 7s to prepare for HSBC SVNS Singapore 7s tournament at the end of the month. 

“I’m thankful to God for the opportunity to be part of this team,” Waidilo said. 

“Coach Osea Kolinisau discovered me during my time playing in the grassroots sevens tournament and called me to join the team.” 

The 25-year-old forward hails from Waibasaga village in Naitasiri. 

“I’ve played in the Coral Coast 7s tournament twice, a few years ago. I represented the Wardens sevens team,” he said. 

“My brother Alosio Vitu has supported me a lot as he has represented the Fiji national team before, so I aim to don the white jumper as well.” 

Waidilo attended Wainimala Primary School and Lelean Memorial School respectively. 

“I also played in the Deans rugby competition from 2015 to 2016,” he said. 

Waidilo has played alongside Fijian Drua players Isoa Nasilasila, Vilive Miramira, Simione Kuruvoli, Tuidraki Samusamudrove and Epeli Momo during his time with the Fijian Warriors in 2020.