VODAFONE Fiji 7s star Jasa Veremalua had an offer to join French club Toulouse in 2013.
But he turned it down to pursue his dream to play for Fiji in the Rio Olympics.
“In 2013, I was playing for Red Rock and coach Lote Rasiga was approached about a contract with Toulouse. I didn’t sign anything,” the 27-year-old Korotogo, Baravi, Nadroga hitman said.
“My main focus that year was Rio. I’m looking forward to it. I want to do my best and represent Fiji.
“After Rio, hopefully if there is a contract, I’d be grateful to go overseas. Most probably play as a wing because I will have to put on weight to play in the forwards.
“Before I used to play for the Natabua sevens team with Joji Ragamate and Metuisela Talebula. From there, Lote Rasiga scouted me out and gave me an offer to play for Red Rock.”
Veremalua also played 15s rugby for Lautoka as a flanker in the 2010 Digicel Cup competition. He played two games and was a replacement for the legendary Viliame Satala.
“I played two games against Vatukoula and Nadroga. I was on the bench and replaced Viliame Satala. I was playing openside flanker.”
Veremalua and a couple of national sevens squad members were among the invited guests for the official opening of the 2016 Handy Finance Oceania Volleyball Championship on Monday.
“I’m honoured being here as a guest for the opening of the Oceania Volleyball Championship. I’d like to wish all the best to the Fiji teams,” he said.
His advice to youngsters includes, “Listen to your parents because they are your God on Earth. Work hard, be disciplined and determined”.
Veremalua is expected to be at his usual top form for Fiji in the Paris and London sevens tournaments to be played from next week.
