When he is back at home, one of Fiji’s greatest league players, Noa Nadruku, avoids rugby.
In spite of the legend it made of him, rugby is merely a money making means of survival for the Namatakula villager of Nadroga.
He set out to make money from the sport, more money than his cousins did in the game.
Now at 55, he looks back, certain he has made good of his rugby career, with a fancy white painted concrete home to show for it in the village, among his many achievements.
By tradition, the warrior and speedster is quiet, and shy.
But his fame in rugby – he played sevens and 15s before he joined rugby league – obliges him to open up a bit from time to time.
Inducted into the Canberra Raiders Hall Of Fame, he impresses upon the significance of family time, when he is back in Fiji.
Nadruku was named one of the best 25 players for the Raiders’ 25-year anniversary, and has a trophy named in his honor.
The “Noa Nadruku Trophy” is awarded to the Australia Fijian Rugby League’s player of the year.
SunBiz caught up with the rugby hero at his home in Namatakula recently.
He is in the country until Christmas, before he plans his next move.
When asked about the three most important things in his life, Nadruku told SunBiz: “I am happily married, I have children, and I love to travel.”
Where in Fiji would you take friends to?
Coral Coast.
It is the best place in Fiji for various reasons – from the resorts, the beaches, the sea and even inland, the wonders are endless.
To bring it closer to home, I would opt for Warwick Fiji.
An aerial view of the coastal Warwick Fiji Resort, at Korolevu.
What is your favourite spot for a coffee or pie?
Denarau.
The coffee is great there.
An aerial view of the Port Denarau Marina.
What is your favourite backyard spot?
Namatakula Village.
I grew up and know the place like the back of my hand.
What is one place in Fiji that is on your bucket list?
Somewhere in Kadavu, as that is where my wife comes from.
Kadavu Island.
Feedback: frederica.elbourne@fijisun.com.fj