From Fiji Rugby (26 September 2025)

Fiji School Boys: Susau Poised for Fiji School Boys Debut in Canberra

Among the powerful frames of the Fiji School Boys team preparing for a historic clash in the Australian capital, 17-year-old Tane Susau stands out not just for his talent, but for his age. Originally from the Oinafa in Rotuma, Susau is one of the youngest members of the squad gearing up to face the Australian School Boys team this coming Monday.

The match, to be held at Viking Park in Canberra, is being billed as a return fixture after the Australian team toured Fiji last year, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the encounter.

A student at Suva Grammar School, Susau arrives with impressive credentials. Earlier this year, he captained both the Grammar Under-18 side and the Drua Development team, leading the latter to a commanding 40-17 victory over Australia's Melbourne Brothers Club in April.

The confident Rotuman lad shared that his rugby journey began in Class 7 at Gospel Primary School. His talent was nurtured at the Eastern Saints Rugby Club kids club, a programme run by former Flying Fijians star and current national kicking coach, Seremaia Bai.

"My Rugby journey really started when I joined Suva Grammar School and trialed for the Under 14 Grade and I never looked back," Susau shared.

Having experimented with several positions in the forward pack, the young athlete has found his home as a prop, a role he says suits his style of play best.

Through the challenges of sport and life, Susau credits his family as his rock and gave special praise to his secondary school coach for his development.

"Mr Epeli Osborne was my first coach from Under 14 through to my senior grade and he really helped me face my challenges," Susau explained. "He encouraged me to work hard through gym work and to be consistent throughout my rugby training."

Being selected for the national schoolboys' team is a significant achievement, and Susau is taking it in stride. He expressed his honour at being one of the youngest in the camp, surrounded by experienced players from other schools.

"It's humbling to learn from them on tour," he added.

Meanwhile, Fiji School Boys Head Coach, Penioni Ranitu, has expressed confidence in his squad. He stated that this year's team has had more time to gel and prepare.

"The team I prepared this year has had more time together as a team and I am confident of a good match ahead," said Coach Ranitu.

The Fiji School Boys will face their Australian counterparts at Viking Park in Canberra on Monday at 12:05 PM (Australian Eastern Time). All eyes will be on young talents like Tane Susau as they look to etch their names in the history books on Australian home soil next week.