Former Fiji 7s rugby rep Isake Katonibau has urged Government to help former players in various programmes including education and life after sports. This was part of his submission to the Ministry of Finance’s National Budget consultations and also to Fiji Rugby Union. Mr Katonibau said playing for Fiji came with pride and with a price. “Players give everything for Fiji – it’s time the nation gave something back,” he said. “We gave up a lot—education, jobs, family time, even our health—to wear that jersey. And we did it without expecting anything back, because we believed in something bigger. “But, now, years later, many of us are left with scarred bodies, no qualifications, and no clear path forward. That’s the reality. “Every person, who has represented Fiji past or present, should get free access to education. It could be a university degree. It could be a trade. It could be any skill they choose to build their life after rugby. “Whatever path they take should be fully funded. Not because they’re asking for favours, but because the country has already taken everything they had to give. He said some people, including the Government and Fiji Rugby, might say “we should just be grateful. That we were given an opportunity. “Grateful for what? For doing exactly what the country asked us to do? For giving up school, jobs, and our health so others could celebrate? “We didn’t beg to play. We earned it. We trained hard, gave our best, and carried Fiji with pride—every single time. This isn’t about entitlement. It’s about fairness. We did our part. Now it’s time Fiji do theirs. Not with words, with action.” Mr Katonibau is asking for: FRU to publicly support this proposal and back it with action. The Government to fund education—degrees, trades, or skills—for all national representatives. Education providers and sponsors to step in and make this real. Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj