Kubu looks up to veteran Waqa

Rising star Geary Kubu says he looks up to former national defender Taniela Waqa and seeks a lot of inspiration from the veteran who continues to represent Labasa at the age of 39.

 

The 18-year-old Nasinu central defender who was recently selected in the Fiji U19 squad for the upcoming OFC U19 Championship in Tahiti told FijiLive that Waqa's dedication and committment to the sport makes him admire the Natowaqa native.

 

The Raiwaqa villager from Nadroga said he always seeks advice from Waqa and paid close attention to his game at the recent Fiji FACT at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. 

 

"I always feel that Taniela Waqa is a very talented and experienced player." 

 

"He has always stood out with his performance and can easily adjust in any position"

 

"I have seen him play many times in the League games but it was my first time to play against him this year after I joined Nasinu."

 

"He is a tough player to beat and score against because he comes with heavy defence and knows the game really well." 

 

"I meet him some times and he has always encouraged me to do my best on and off the field and stay disciplined."

 

"During the Fiji FACT, he advised me that I should focus on my game and also work on my defence because I was doing good but there were some weaknesses."

 

Speaking about his selection, the former Ba youth rep said this is the first time for him to make a national team.

 

"When the under 19 team announcement happened, I heard my name and was happy. I thank Dan (Waqa) for the motivation and his words of encouragement."

 

Kubu further said that he is aware of the challenges that will be posed at the OFC Under 19 Championship but is taking advantage of the training sessions in camp and the Digicel Premier League matches. 

 

"We have been in camp and the players are really working hard. The coaches are training us for our positions."

 

"I think it will be tough. Teams from Oceania region will be there and they will be competitive."

 

"But we just have to focus on how we train now. Personally the camp is really helping me to understand my position as a defender and prepare me for DPL games."

 

"I joined Nasinu because I wanted to grow my football knowledge and the boys in the team are very supportive. We went to the Fiji FACT and it was my first ever tournament. It was a good learning experience and we played back-to-back games daily."

 

"The opportunity allowed me to manage my time well and prepare myself better mentally for the big games."

 

Kubu and NZOTC Nasinu will face Tailevu Naitasiri in their Round 11 DPL fixture at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori on Sunday at 11.30am.

 

By Romeka Romena