R.I.L Joe : My Star Struck Moment

The news of his passing shocked the rugby world and of course, others that knew him well.  Much-loved former All Black Joeli Vidiri tragically died in his new wife’s arms after suffering a trio of cardiac arrests while battling COVID-19 in America.

When i heard the news i went back to the time i can remember was my first meeting with him.

My parents always told me of the young man from Nausori Highland who has made it big playing in New Zealand. I was a baby and of course didn’t really remember him. They spoke of his namesake who was his biggest fan and would tell anyone that would listen about his “yaca”.

So my first meeting with him was on a Saturday my parents packed us all up and we caught the bus to Nadi from Suva and went to watch him. Joeli Vidiri was in the country and was playing at a farebrother match for Nadi.

It was the star-struck moment of my young life when i was introduced to this star rugby player from Nausori Highland that knew my parents while growing up.

Rest In Love Joe

Source: fijivillage.com, stuff.co.nz