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Ulster sign Fijian flyer

Wednesday 30th July 2008

Rising Fijian star Timoci Nagusa has signed a two-year deal with Ulster Rugby in time to start pre-season training with the squad in August.

Hailing from Fiji's largest island, Tailevu, the 21-year-old winger stands at 1m95 and 95kg.

The young star has made remarkable progress in this his debut year of senior level rugby, having already racked up 3 caps, 2 tries and 10 points for his Country after his first appearance for Fiji in June. Nagusa previously played his club and provincial rugby with Bau and Tailevu Knights respectively.

Nagusa started playing rugby at school, representing Ratu Kadavulevu Grammar School. His rise to the top has been faster than he expected. Last year he was in the Tailevu development squad but was called to the senior team towards the end of the season. He joined the Fiji Warriors this year in the IRB's Pacific Rugby Cup, featuring teams from Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji.

The former police constable has followed in the footsteps of his uncle the late Vuniani Varo, who also played on the wing for Fiji in the 1970s.

"He played outstandingly well and shocked the Samoans," said Fiji caoch Ilie Tabua after his debut this year.

"He used his speed well and he blended in completely with the other players. Timoci stood his ground and outran the bulky Samoan forwards with ease. He is a player who has the capacity to go far at the highest level."

Ulster Head Coach, Matt Williams spoke about the new Fijian winger's pace as the main asset.

"Timoci has the one major asset I have been searching the rugby union and league world for. He has genuine pace," said Williams.

"He is fast. We needed another real speed merchant to match and in this case surpass Simon Danielli. Timoci is also a high achiever off the field, being a member of the elite Fijian Police Tactical Response Group.

He is very mature for a 21-year-old; his attitude is anything but what we would associate with a "laid-back Fijian."

"His personality and attitude will fit into the Ulster culture we are creating. I have been very selective in waiting for the right person for this position in our playing roster. I am glad we waited for Timoci to sign with us" continued Matt.