SAMISONI Viriviri always harboured a dream to play for the national side just like his grandfather and namesake.
Viriviri, the 24-year-old farmer from Dratabu, Nadi, has been given the opportunity to realise his long-time dream after being named in the 12-member Digicel Fiji sevens team for the Gold Coast 7s in Australia this weekend.
And the Nadroga fullback is ready to utilise this opportunity to the fullest and amass a decorated career like his grandfather, who has played 24 Test matches for Fiji.
"I'm very excited with this opportunity and I will do my very best," a soft-spoken Viriviri said.
"I have learnt a lot from the past few weeks with the team and I will utilise that knowledge to further my career."
Viriviri's rugby journey starts with the Nadi College where he played for the under-16 side in the schools competition.
At the age of 19, he claimed ranks, breaking into the club level playing for Dratabu in the Nadi Rugby Union club games.
He later played for the Lomaiviti side and also had a stint with the Suva team in 2010 before joining the Stallions this year.
Viriviri said his rugby journey so far had been a rewarding one and he hoped for better times ahead.
"This is a new start for me. I have always wanted to play for Fiji and now I have been given the opportunity and I want to make the most of it."