Rupeni Mataele into Western Force Academy

Fijian flyer Rupeni Mataele goes one step closer to playing Super Rugby being selected for the Western Force Fortescue Academy.

The younger brother of Flying Fijian flyer Manasa Mataele, Rupeni, who also plays wing, is one of five graduates that have been called to the academy.

General Manager of the Academy Chris Goodman is proud of the group and the attitude they’ve shown this year.

“First and foremost, they are men of great character and fully deserve this opportunity,” Goodman told rugby.com.au.

“These players have worked hard to put themselves in a position to earn a Wider Training Squad contract.

Goodman expects the latest inclusion to be playing Super Rugby within the 2023 to 2024 season.

“We view these players as ones who will be able to make an impact for the senior team in 2023 and 2024, this builds depth in key positions that the club is looking to strengthen in the years to come.”

The former Marist Brothers High School student from Vanuavatu Island in Lau was also a sub junior boys javelin bronze medalist at the 2017 Coca-Cola Games.

Graduating Players: Siosifa Amone, George Poolman, Rupeni Mataele, Andrew Romano, Cottesloe Ned Slack-Smith

By Noa Biudole