- Sam Wye received an unexpected call-up for the international test match against the Wallabies.
- The 25-year-old scrum-half’s journey from New Zealand to Fiji is grounded in family pride and heritage.
- Wye aims to incorporate elements from rugby legends Aaron Smith and Frank Lomani into his play.
Excitement Surrounds Wye’s Call-Up to Team
For the upcoming clash between the Fiji Water Flying Fijians and the Wallabies, a special story has emerged. Sam Wye, a 25-year-old scrum-half, just received what could arguably be called the call of a lifetime. Head coach Mick Byrne reached out to him with an unexpected invitation to join the squad for their first test match against Australia, igniting excitement and disbelief in Wye, who considered this opportunity somewhat surreal.
Wye’s Journey from New Zealand to Fiji
Wye’s journey is quite fascinating. Born in New Zealand, he has Fijian roots as his parents migrated there in the 1990s. Reflecting on receiving that transformative phone call, Wye humorously recalled, “I was driving to club training when I saw a missed call from Mick Byrne—I thought it was a prank!” But it turned out to be real, and moments later, he was confirming his participation in the July Test match. This selection means so much to him, as it fulfills a long-held dream, one he hadn’t anticipated happening so soon.
Family Support Fuels Ambition and Skill Development
Wye expressed profound gratitude for the journey that has led him to this point. Having the unwavering support of his family during this time has boosted his confidence immensely. “The two weeks before I flew over to Fiji, my parents were constantly in my ear about training—‘are you ready?’” he shared with a smile. The messages of encouragement keep pouring in, highlighting a collective proud moment not just for his parents, but also for relatives back home in New Zealand and across Fiji. In addition to this, he is aiming to emulate the playing styles of rugby legends Aaron Smith and Frank Lomani, trying to incorporate their skills into his game. “I’ve always admired Aaron’s passing and leadership, while Frank’s defensive grit and work rate are what I want to bring into my own game,” Wye explained.
Sam Wye’s unexpected call-up to the Fiji Water Flying Fijians symbolizes personal achievement and family pride. His dedication and skill caught coach Mick Byrne’s attention, leading him to an exciting future. As the Flying Fijians prepare for their test match against the Wallabies, Wye’s journey represents the heart and soul of rugby, uniting dreams, heritage, and passion.
