Meet the Fijian teen chasing his rugby sevens dreams in New Zealand

"I was 10 when I came from Fiji to New Zealand. I didn't know how to speak English properly" - Jona Mataiciwa

Red Bull’s new mini-series ‘On The Rise’, profiles three of the six MVPs from the 2019 Red Bull Ignite7 tournament, all of whom earnt themselves a trial spot for the national rugby sevens development squads.

First up is proud Fijian Jona Mataiciwa who is based in Whanganui.  Red Bull talks with them about the sacrifices they have had to make to support their children’s dreams of becoming international rugby sevens representatives and other challenges along the way, including migrating from the Pacific Islands with young children.

Jona began playing competitive rugby soon after his family's move from Fiji, aged only 10.  Last year he helped lead his St. Kenitgren's team to the 1A final last year, with the side narrowly missing out against Hastings Boys High in the nationals.

We wish him all the best as he trials for a spot in the New Zealand Sevens Development Squad.

Click here to watch Red Bulls full series