Rugby: Fiji legend Joeli Veitayaki dies - cause of death, tributes

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 Fiji legend Joeli Veitayaki dies - cause of death, tributes

Former Fiji rugby player Joeli Veitayaki has passed away.

Former Fiji rugby legend Joeli Veitayaki has died at 58 in New Zealand. The news, shared by his family on Facebook, has sparked tributes from the rugby community worldwide. Veitayaki played 49 matches for Fiji from 1994 to 2003, scoring 15 points, and had successful stints with top teams like Chiefs, Blues, and Ulster."Joeli's passing has come as a great shock to our family and we are taking time to come together," his daughter Talei Veitayaki wrote on social media. She added: "A gentle giant with a big heart. He was loved by many and had an huge impact on his community."The cause for the death has not been publicly disclosed.Born on Matuku island in Lau, Veitayaki's rugby journey began when he was spotted playing in the Island Zone competition.

He first joined Saint John's-Marist Club, then moved to Police and represented Suva. His career took off when he moved to King Country, New Zealand in 1991, later playing for Northland.His nephew, Buka Sokovagone, paid an emotional tribute saying, "You wore the white jersey with honor, and every time you stepped onto the field, you reminded us what it means to be Fijian. You were a warrior, a mentor, a father, and a beacon of hope.

Your journey from island rugby island zone roots to the world stage has inspired generations."The rugby star played Super Rugby with the Chiefs in 1996 and the Blues in 1999. He finished his professional career with Irish club Ulster, where he played from 2001 to 2003. His legacy continues through his son, Haereiti Hetet, who currently represents Fiji.

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