Nalotawa in Ba native Akuila Momo is set to make his debut for the Fiji Airways Fijian 7s at the prestigious Hong Kong 7s tournament.
Having initially started off with playing soccer from class 1 through class 8, Akuila’s transition to rugby began to unfold during his secondary education at Ratu Navula.
Despite facing setbacks, such as not being selected during the Deans trials, Momo never gave up and switched to rugby league where he played in the U18 team for Petero Civoniceva.
“I guess from there I realized that I did have a talent for rugby, and it encouraged me to keep pursuing,” he said.
It was at this year’s Coral Coast 7s tournament where Momo’s talent was recognized by national 7s selectors.
“Transitioning from club rugby to national training was very new to me and it took a bit of adjusting especially with discipline and diet but I am coping very well.”
Due to injury, Fiji Airways Fijian 7s rover Kaminieli Rasaku has been replaced by Momo.
Momo was called in on Thursday.
“The news of my selection to replace Qams (Rasaku) at the Hong Kong 7s came as a surprise because I didn’t expect to be the last-minute change, especially just being new to the squad.”
The support of family fueled Momo’s motivation.
“The family at home were very happy and that is what makes me happy, seeing them proud of me.
My parents have sacrificed a lot for me, for paying my bus fare to and from training and always supporting me financially, this is an answered prayer,” said Momo.
As the oldest of five siblings, Akuila carries not only the weight of his own aspirations but also the hopes and dreams of his loved ones.
Fiji finds themselves in a competitive pool alongside Australia, Canada, and France, setting the stage for thrilling matchups and fierce competition.
