Swapping the dream of designing bridges for the adrenaline of rugby, Motikiai Murray made a life-changing decision that has turned out to be his greatest triumph.
As a teenager, the flanker from Lovoni Village, Ovalau in Fiji, set aside aspirations of becoming a civil engineer, choosing instead to chase his passion for rugby — and he’s never looked back.
Rugby dreams
As a student at the rugby-centric Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS), Murray initially dreamed of designing buildings and bridges but the allure of the rugby field proved too powerful to resist.
“My dream was to become a civil engineer,” he said.
“But I reached a point where I had to choose between my love for studies and my love for rugby. In the end, I chose rugby.”
Despite this decision, Murray remains committed to his education. Although his studies are currently on hold, he says he remains determined to complete them, understanding the need for a career to support him beyond rugby.
Starting out
Raised in Levuka, Fiji’s historic old capital, he grew up in a close-knit household as the eldest of seven siblings – a role that instilled in him a deep sense of responsibility.
Murray’s rugby journey began with the Ovalau Rugby Union and Milo Kaji tournaments, a rugby tournament for primary school, where his raw talent shone brightly.
Despite missing the chance to compete in the prestigious Fiji Secondary Schools U18 Deans Championship, a crucial platform for aspiring Fijian players, his dedication and grit helped pave the way.
Murray reached a major milestone in 2023, making his Drua debut against the formidable Crusaders in Christchurch.
Fijian Drua flanker Motikiai Murray receives his playing jersey (Supplied: Fijian Drua)
That same year, he was named captain of the Fiji U20s team for the Junior World Rugby Championship, leading them to an impressive Top 10 finish in South Africa.
Beyond his Drua commitments, Murray has earned five caps with the Fijian Warriors, further cementing his reputation as one of Fiji’s rising rugby stars.
Drua 2025
Now nearing his 22nd birthday, Murray has cemented his place as a stand-out player for the Fijian Drua, exemplifying resilience, raw talent, and the steadfast support of his family and community.
Drawing inspiration from legends like Levani Botia, Fiji’s “demolition man,” and Richie McCaw, the former All Blacks captain, Murray remains motivated to carve out his own legacy.
“I want to be even half the player they are,” he said.
Off the pitch, he turns to rap music to fuel his energy before games, a pre-match ritual that keeps him grounded and focused.
Motikiai with his Fijian Drua playing jersey with his Drua team mates including Fijian Drua captain Tevita Ikanivere next to him on the right(Supplied: Fijian Drua)
The team is set to open their season against the Brumbies at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on February 15, with fans eagerly anticipating another thrilling year of rugby.
Although the up and coming loose forward was not selected for game one, he promises to deliver a combination of strength and excitement on the field when he gets the call up.
From blueprints to rugby balls, Motikiai Murray’s story is a testament to the rewards of pursuing one’s passion. And for him, this is only the beginning.
Posted 19h ago19 hours agoFri 14 Feb 2025 at 7:00pm, updated 14h ago14 hours agoFri 14 Feb 2025 at 11:59pm
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Author : rugby-247
Publish date : 2025-02-15 14:02:23
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