Mata to cherish his Olympic moments for the rest of his life

Fiji 7s Men’s forward Viliame Mata will cherish his Olympic moment for the rest of his life.

Mata who is still trying to come to terms with his selection in the team to Rio as one of the surprise inclusions by coach Ben Ryan during the team naming.

Mata has been unlucky in the past few legs due to injuries and Ryan knows how important his role is when he is up against big teams including South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.

The 24-year-old who hails from Nauluvatu, Nakelo, Tailevu edged two prominent 7s players Pio Tuwai and Waisea Nayacalevu for a spot in the final 13-member team.

Coach Ben Ryan said it took him a while to sit down during his one on one session with the players.

Meanwhile Mata added that they have been training hard and are confident of a good Olympics outing.

The former Suva Grammar School student has also secured a contract with Scotland’s Pro 12 club Edinburgh.

Ryan said everything has been confirmed and a statement from the club is expected soon.

Fiji will take on Brazil in their first Rio Olympics pool game at 4.30am on August 10th, they will then face Argentina at 9.30am before taking on USA at 4.30am on August 11th.

The quarter finals will start at 8am Thursday August 11th, the semis will start at 5.30am Friday August 12th and the final will kick off at 10am Friday August 12th.

Barring any upsets, Fiji will meet France, Kenya or Argentina in the Medal Quarter Final, Australia or Great Britain in the Medal Semi Final and NZ or South Africa in the Gold Medal Final.

The Rio Olympics opening ceremony will start at 11am next Saturday.