In a strong display of dedication and professionalism, Worcester Warriors prop Livai Natave made a significant impact during his team’s opening match of the Championship Rugby season, despite missing the birth of his third child to be available for the game.
The Warriors secured a 29-19 victory over Coventry at Sixways Stadium, starting their campaign with a bonus-point win after scoring four tries. Natave, a Fijian international, joined the match from the bench and was instrumental in the team’s success, demonstrating powerful physicality and contributing to a try that leveled the scoreline.
Head coach Matt Everard praised Natave’s performance, acknowledging the personal sacrifice he made by staying with the team while his family remained in Fiji. “Hats off to Livai,” said Everard. “He became a father for the third time this week but couldn’t make it back to see his newborn son. Still, he came on and gave everything. He was outstanding.”
The emotional moment of the day wasn’t limited to the result on the field. Before kickoff, the Warriors players walked out holding hands with their children, a symbolic gesture underscoring the importance of family within the team culture. Families, partners, and supporters watched from the stands, adding to the uplifting atmosphere of the day.
Coach Everard emphasized how vital it is to build a club where families feel welcome and involved. “People always say family comes first, but it’s often the first thing forgotten in professional sport,” he said. “We’re trying to create something new here a home for our players and their loved ones.”
Second-row player Côme Joussain echoed this sentiment, stating that the connection with their families motivates the team. “Seeing players walk out with their kids and having our partners cheering for us means a lot. It’s a great feeling to run out onto a packed Sixways with that kind of support,” he said.
Following Natave’s game-changing assist that helped Matt Kvesic score and draw the teams level, Worcester added another try from Ashley Challenger. Will Reed followed up with a successful conversion and penalty kick to seal the win.
The Warriors’ next fixture is an away match against Hartpury on Saturday, October 11, where they’ll look to continue their strong start to the season.
While Natave couldn’t be physically present with his family for his son’s birth, his efforts on the field spoke volumes about his commitment to the team and his performance didn’t go unnoticed.
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