"As we look to the future of Fijian rugby, we cannot forget those that have laid the foundation, those that contributed to building a sport that does so much to unite Fijians and help us to rise above the challenges we have endured as a nation and people - Mr Pio Bosco Tikoisuva sits among legends at the center."
These were the words of Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama as he officiated at the launching of an autobiography of one of Fiji's greatest rugby legends 'Emperor Bosco' at the Suva Civic Center yesterday evening.
"In fact, I don’t believe I have ever launched an auto-biography before," PM Bainimarama said.
“Emperor Bosco, as Mr Tikoisuva is fondly known, has lived a life that is certainly worth putting down to paper and we’re lucky that he has chosen to share his life’s journey along with some well-earned wisdom gained through his remarkable career."
"This is the kind of story that would inspire anyone to chase their dreams with passion and serve their country with distinction because this man has built a legacy that every Fijian can be proud to celebrate."
"I’m sure most of us already know the broad strokes of Mr Tikoisuva’s life. He is a true sportsman –– a leader on the field who has helped deliver legendary victories for Team Fiji, including against the British and Irish Lions."
The Prime Minister further added that more than often our ruggers have been told they stand for something far larger than themselves when they represent Fiji to the world and they are ambassadors of the country when they don the jersey of Team Fiji.
The book cover features a picture of a young Mr Tikoisuva which was first published in an issue of the England based 'Rugby World Cup Magazine' during the 1975 -1976 rugby season when he was playing rugby for the Harlequins Rugby Club.
Mr Tikoisuva explained that the name Emperor Bosco was bestowed upon him by an unknown supporter of the Harlequins Rugby Club who wrote a piece about him with a line reading - 'Emperor Bosco - the man from the Fiji Islands.'
The book was written by Mr Percy Kean who also acknowledged the assistance of numerous volunteers and the support of the Fiji Rugby Union and the network of Marist Brothers High School former students.