Rugby gives Taito a second chance

If there’s one thing Lui Taito has learned so far in life, it would be a well-known quote “talent is nothing without hard work.”

The 28-year-old from the village of Namuamua in Namosi played a huge role in helping his Tabadamu Blues side reach the finals of the Men’s Cup in the Fiji Bitter Tabadamu 7s in Sigatoka for the past two days.

Playing at utility back, the soft-spoken lad has come a long way through life in learning that if one wants to become great, hard work is inevitable.

“I have been playing rugby since I was in high school. Unfortunately, I used to follow the wrong crowd and even got involved in things that I am not proud of,” the father of three shared.

Taito displayed impressive attacking skills in the semi-final of the men’s cup, setting up tries for his side where they defeated a strong Warden Gold side 17-10.

His dream of donning the white jersey came early when he was a form six student at Nasinu Secondary School, but this was cut short when he started following the wrong crowd.

“Decision-making is very important. Unfortunately, I never had anyone to speak to on how to focus on my goals, but I have been able to learn from my mistakes and move forward in life.”

Luckily he was able to figure out his mistakes early on in life and decided to make a change once and for all. Before joining the Tabadamu rugby club, Taito represented several 7s clubs around Suva and Namosi.

“Before I joined Tabadamu, I was playing for my village team.”

Just from watching Taito’s playing style on the field, one can certainly see a national 7s star on the rise.

“Right now I’m just focused on playing my best in hopes of one day getting a chance to wear the white jersey.”

Taito currently lives in his village in Namosi and is a full-time farmer. With dreams of one day he will escape poverty and provide better for his young family, he continues to train whenever he can in search of a rugby career.

“I plant yagona and dalo. Since selling this I have been able to take care of my family. I will continue to train and work hard as I know one day the opportunity I hope for will come my way.”

In his closing remarks, Taito says that everything is possible, one just needs to be focused on their goals and have faith in God.

“It’s that simple, if you can push all your distractions aside and focus on your goal, there is no way you won’t be able to achieve your goal.”