From Ball Boy to Professional Pathway: An AVRDT Alumni Journey 

As part of Pasefika Proud’s commitment to supporting strong and vibrant Pacific children, young people and their families, initiatives like the Aotearoa Viti Rugby Development Trust (AVRDT) continue to demonstrate how culturally grounded approaches can strengthen wellbeing, identity, and future pathways for NZ–Fijian youth. 

For Breyton Legge, the journey through AVRDT has been shaped by connection, discipline, and a deep sense of belonging. Growing up between Canberra, Auckland and Fiji, Breyton was shaped by family, faith, and rugby across multiple environments.  

Breyton’s first exposure to the pathway came through the NZ Fiji Schools 7s programme, where he began as a ball boy, following the team through training sessions and tournaments. Observing the discipline, preparation and expectations of older players left a lasting impression.  

“I was always around the boys, watching how they trained and how seriously they took their preparation,” Breyton reflects.  

“Being in that environment early on showed me what was possible if you stayed disciplined and committed.” 

Those early experiences became the foundation for his progression through the NZ Fiji Schools 7s pathway. Over time, Breyton moved from observing to actively participating, gaining opportunities to train, compete and grow alongside peers who shared similar cultural roots and aspirations.  

More than rugby skills, the programme reinforced values that align closely with Pasefika Proud’s wellbeing approach- recognising that wellbeing occurs when individuals are supported holistically, with balance between identity, relationships, environment, and purpose. “Knowing who I am and where I come from has helped keep me focused,” Breyton says. “It keeps you grounded when things get busy or challenging.”   

Today, Breyton continues his rugby journey within the Drua development environment in Fiji. While the demands of high-performance training are significant, the lessons instilled through AVRDT remain central to how he navigates this next stage.  

“There are no shortcuts,” he explains. “You have to trust the process, stay disciplined, and make sure you’re doing the right things on and off the field.”   

Faith and family remain important anchors. “Making sure God is in everything you do keeps you aligned and focused,” he adds, highlighting the role of spiritual and familial support systems in sustaining resilience and wellbeing.

AVRDT Founder and Trustee Alfred Uluinayau says Breyton’s pathway reflects the long-term outcomes the programme aims to achieve.  

“Our focus has always been about more than rugby. We want to see young people who are confident in who they are, grounded in culture, and prepared for opportunities both in sport and in life.” 

This aligns with Pasefika Proud’s strengths-based approach, which mobilises Pacific individuals, families and communities to take leadership, find solutions and build resilience using their own cultural knowledge and values. As an alumnus, Breyton is clear about the message he wants to pass on to the next generation of Fijian athletes coming through programmes like AVRDT.  

“Stay committed, listen, and be patient,” he says. “Respect the journey, trust your support networks, and don’t rush the process.”   

Breyton’s story highlights the importance of culturally anchored pathways that recognise mana and tapu, strengthen identity, and support long-term wellbeing. It is a clear example of how Pacific-led initiatives can nurture confident, capable young people who are equipped to pursue meaningful futures on the field and beyond.