Waisale Serevi

Waisale Serevi: The Wizard of Rugby Sevens

Imagine a rugby player so skilled that he was nicknamed ‘The Wizard.’ Waisale Tikoisolomoni Serevi, born on May 20, 1968, in Fiji, is just such a legend. His career spanned decades and continents, leaving an indelible mark on the sport of rugby sevens.

The Early Years

How did Waisale Serevi’s journey begin? It all started with a move from Vanuatu to Suva. At Lelean Memorial School, he honed his skills under coach Ratu Kitione Tuibua at Nabua Rugby Club. This early exposure laid the foundation for what was to come.

Professional Career

From Mitsubishi to Leicester and beyond, Serevi’s professional career was a testament to his versatility and skill. He played for various clubs including Stade Montois, Staines, and even had opportunities in Australia’s National Rugby League. His journey with Mitsubishi was particularly significant; he won the World Cup with Fiji in 1997 and 2005, leading the team to victory in the 2005-06 World Sevens Series.

Representative Career

Waisale Serevi’s representative career was nothing short of extraordinary. He played for Fiji 39 times between 1989 and 2003, scoring an impressive 376 points. His sevens career started in 1989, and he won silver at the Commonwealth Games in 1998 and 2002, capturing bronze in 2006.

Notable Achievements

In 1997, Serevi led Fiji to victory in the World Sevens Series. His last match for Fiji was a 41–13 win over Japan in the 2003 Rugby World Cup; his third Rugby World Cup tournament. He also played for Fiji during the 1999 Rugby World Cup and later returned to the team in 2001.

Sevens Dominance

Serevi’s sevens career was a series of triumphs. From winning several major titles, including the Dubai Sevens and the Hong Kong Sevens (which doubled as the 1997 Rugby Sevens World Cup), to leading Fiji to victory in numerous tournaments, Serevi’s impact on the sport cannot be overstated.

Leadership and Legacy

Serevi was not just a player; he was also a leader. He captained Fiji at the 1998 Commonwealth Games, winning a silver medal and scoring a try-saving tackle. In 2005, under his captaincy, Fiji qualified for the quarter-finals of the Sevens World Cup at Hong Kong. After scoring the match-winning try against England, Serevi led Fiji to World Cup victory over New Zealand in 2004.

Coaching Career

After his playing career, Waisale Serevi transitioned into coaching. He was appointed coach of Fiji after his success with the team and won several tournaments as coach, including the 2005 World Games gold medal and multiple IRB Sevens Series titles.

Continued Impact

In 2006, Serevi coached Fiji to the IRB Sevens Series win and bronze at the Commonwealth Games. He also renewed his contract with the Fiji Rugby Union and joined the board of the interim Fiji Sports Council. His coaching career continued in 2007, with Fiji reaching the final of several tournaments.

Personal Life

Beyond the field, Waisale Serevi is a committed Christian who attends church regularly and has ‘Philippians 4:13’ written on his gear. He also has interests in music, movies, touch rugby, volleyball, meeting people, and traveling.

Conclusion

Waisale Serevi’s legacy is one of unparalleled skill, leadership, and dedication to the sport of rugby sevens. From his early days at Nabua Rugby Club to his coaching career, he has left an indelible mark on the game. His journey is a testament to what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a relentless spirit.