Mitieli Vulikijapani is looking to build on the last 18 months in his career as he prepares for his third season as a Hull FC player.
One of the Black & Whites’ two Rugby League World Cup representatives this autumn, having featured for Fiji, Vulikijapani earned his place in the international squad after making great strides for the Airlie Birds throughout the 2022 Betfred Super League campaign, showing glimpses of class and finesse.
But ever the humble individual, the 28-year-old was quick to thank his domestic club for the support they provided to help him feature on the world stage this year.
“It was a massive opportunity for me and one I was very grateful to Hull FC for, because they have given me that opportunity over the last couple of years,” he explained.
“To have received that last-minute call up and then play in the first game against Australia, with some of the best players in the world – that was special for me and my family.
“It was so special to be in the camp with all of the Fiji boys, who were all very welcoming. I can’t show my gratitude enough.”
Although Vulikijapani did not feature in the majority of Fiji’s games at the World Cup, he did play against the eventual champions, Australia, in their opening match at Headingley Stadium.
Going up against the likes of Latrell Mitchell and Josh Addo-Carr, some of the best performers in the NRL, will have no doubt given Vulikijapani an unforgettable experience, whilst learning a few things along the way.
Now the World Cup is over for another four years, the Fijian is back with FC as preparations ramp up for the 2023 campaign.
Returning to a new facility and a new head coach, Vulikijapani got a feeling of freshness on his first few days back with the Black & Whites.
“There’s a lot of big energy around the camp the moment, but I’m just happy to be back,” he said.
“It’s been good to speak with Tony and the rest of the guys in the coaching staff.
“I’ve got a good platform to build on now. I’ve been involved at Hull FC for two years and I’ve had a good experience at the World Cup, so for me, 2023 is all about building on what I have already achieved.”
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