Fiji Call-Up for Rugby Star

Shiplake’s very own Filimoni Savou was selected to represent Fiji in the U20 team for the Rugby Junior World Trophy Tournament. The event, which was held in Portugal, was the eighth annual international rugby union competition for Under 20 national teams; a second-tier world championship. Fiji is one of eight nations that competed in the tournament.

Having undergone professional training from a very young age, Fili is an avid rugby player and fan. Fili has been an integral part in the College’s own rugby team, and it is not the first time that his sporting prowess has warranted national and international recognition. The rugby star won a place in the England U17 squad, winning an international match against France last year.

Fili joined 30 other talented players from across the world, having been whittled down from a group of 82 young sports stars who competed in trials in April. Coach Viliame Gadalo has said of Fili that ‘he has been doing very well in England and has also represented England at age group level. He has been processed in a professional rugby environment and is a player full of potential.’

Fili joined the Fiji team straight from the Saracen’s Academy. Head of Rugby Mr Sam Beckett has said of the accomplishment that ‘it is well deserved, and shows that the commitment, hard graft and ardour Fili has been displaying to his sport is being acknowledged. We wish him the very best of luck as his sporting career continues to blossom.’