Waisale Beci: Rugby Star Passes Away at 39 After Short Illness

Waisale Beci: Rugby Star Passes Away at 39 After Short Illness

  • Waisale Beci, who represented Fiji in the World Rugby Sevens Series during the 2009–2010 period, passed away at the age of 39
  • Beci was regarded as one of the most exciting wingers in Fiji's national sevens setup, earning praise from World Rugby
  • His death has prompted reflection on his contributions to Fijian rugby, including a standout performance at the 2010 Hong Kong Sevens

Waisale Beci, a former Fiji 7s winger who represented the national side during the 2009–2010 period, has died at the age of 39 following a short illness.

Beci was considered one of the more dynamic wingers to emerge during his time with the Fiji Sevens setup, catching attention for his pace and finishing ability on the international circuit. World Rugby acknowledged his potential at the time, describing him as a new Fijian star in the sevens game.

The South African rugby community also lost former player Russell Nelson, who died a few days before celebrating his birthday, and a young player who died during training.

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Beci's highlights in a Fiji Sevens shirt

He was named in Fiji's squad for the 2008–09 season and remained part of the national setup across a period when the country was consistently ranked among the top teams in international sevens rugby.

One of his most memorable moments came at the 2010 Hong Kong Sevens, where Beci scored two tries in Fiji's opening pool match as the side beat Thailand 82–7. He also featured in Fiji's successful 2010 Wellington campaign, coached by Iliesa Tanivula.

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A legacy that extended beyond playing

After his playing career wound down, Beci channelled his experience into developing younger talent, staying connected to rugby through coaching and mentoring.

News of his passing prompted reflection across Fijian rugby circles, with many recalling his contributions to the national side during a competitive era in international sevens.

Rugby legend dies after cardiac arrest

Briefly News also reported that a rugby legend passed away at the age of 68, a few days after suffering cardiac arrest.

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The rugby icon was unable to recover despite medical efforts to revive him after the cardiac arrest incident.

Source: Briefly News

Authors:
Raphael Abiola avatar

Raphael Abiola (Sports editor) Raphael Abiola is a Sports Journalist with over nine years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015. Raphael previously worked as a football editor at Stakegains (2016-2018) and a content editor with Opera News Nigeria (2018-2023). Raphael then worked as an Editor for the Local Desk at Sports Brief (2023-2024). Reach him via email at raphael.abiola@briefly.co.za.