The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) on Tuesday, with regret, announced the sudden and untimely death of former Fiji Under-19 captain, John Vugakoto.
The 19-year-old star passed away early Tuesday morning, after apparently suffering from a heart condition.
Vugakoto captain Fiji to first place in Division B of the 2006 International Rugby Board (IRB) U19 World Championship, and was named Fiji Under-18 Player that Year after playing for the Fiji Schoolboys in a close defeat to their Australian counterparts.
FRU chief executive Timoci Tavanavanua said the whole rugby community has been shocked by the news.
"John was one of our star young players with a great rugby future ahead of him," Tavanavanua said.
"We are extremely saddened by this, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family in what must be a devastating time for them.
"He had already achieved so much in his young career and was clearly destined for much greater things."
Equally comfortable at lock or flank and possessing strong leadership qualities, Vugakoto was earmarked to take on the role of captain of the Fijian team for the Junior (Under-20) World Championship this year.
He trained with the squad on Monday morning, then with the Colonial Cup franchise Highlanders in the afternoon. He later died in his sleep.
The funeral will be held on Saturday, February 9.