Fijian Drua development player Aisea Tuisese wants to play for Naitasiri in this year’s Skipper Cup competition, when it gets underway in August. The young centre scored two tries in the final of the Tara’s Supermarket Nausori 10s tournament at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori, last Saturday as his side Black Diamond side beat Natakali Sharks 17 – 15. The 20-year-old was named the Best Player of the final. Tuisese dedicated the win to his late grandfather and rugby legend Ratu Ilaitia Tuisese (Snr) who passed away in October last year. Coming from a rugby family, Tuisese’s dad Ilaitia (Jnr) is also a former Flying Fijian and current Naitasiri head coach. Tuisese’s great grandfather and namesake Ratu Aisea Tuisese played centre for the Flying Fijians from 1947-1948. Tuisese said Black Diamond is a Naitasiri team that took part the 10s tournament. He also acknowledged his team-mates for their efforts that enabled them to win the tournament. “We are preparing for the Skipper Cup to start in about three months time and I’m just grateful for the opportunity. “It’s been a while since I got game time as I played in the Naitasiri 10s tournament. “I was fortunate enough to be released from the Drua club in Nadi to come and play in the Nausori 10s.” Tuisese said as a development player in the Drua club, it was crucial for him to get game time. “We train a lot in the gym and on the field, so we need to show our ability on the field,” he said. “I thank the Lord for protecting me on the field as I did not suffer any injuries and I’m just grateful for the opportunity.” Tuisese said he would be grateful to represent Naitasiri if he is offered the opportunity. “The Skipper Cup tournament is where we start from after school rugby then to clubs. It gives us a lot of experience and a lot of exposure. “It really builds us for the big thing playing out there in the Super Rugby competition. “I have my family and friends with a lot of people out there that keep pushing me to do my best. “I go through a lot of obstacles everyday but I’m grateful to God for every opportunity that comes my way.” Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj