The Maika Sivo Story

As part of their ongoing brand partnership, Victoria Bitter and National Rugby League have joined forces for Father’s Day to co-produce a heart-warming real-life story about Parramatta Eels footballer Maika Sivo and his dad, Joeli.
It centres around the fact that Joeli Sivo has never seen his son play in the flesh. Sivo senior has never left Fiji, nor does he own a passport. Maika Sivo, who came from humble beginnings and only recently started playing rugby league for the first time four years ago, is now one of this season’s top try-scorers.
#NRL
AGENCY : National Rugby League
CREATIVE DIRECTOR, DIRECTOR, SCRIPTWRITER: Nick Snelling - nicksnelling.com.au
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHER: Paul van Kan - paulvankan.com
SPONSORSHIP MANAGER: Rhys Attard - Digital Sponsorship Manager, NRL - [e-mail]
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Nicole Chesher - Senior Marketing Manager, NRL - [e-mail]
EDITORS: Paul Van Kan & Nick Snelling
SOUND DESIGNER: Matt Perrott at Uncanny Valley - uncannyvalley.com.au
MUSIC COMPOSER: Jonny Higgins - jonnyhiggins.com
COLOURIST: Tim Wreyford - timwreyford.com
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[@princejxyden1789]

I’m glad for my fellow Fijian

[@izzyv7989]

So am I buddy

[@king_of_the_sneks]

Yea great job sivo

[@zermirebornwhoevenareyoudo8947]

@@king_of_the_sneks Fhb

[@elenoabogiwalu1490]

😪🤴🤴🤴😭❤❤💚💚🇯🇲

[@ninanasara5545]

PrinceJayden17

[@magaijinamu4495]

People need to realise how being humble takes you a very long way. Shoutout to all my fijian brothers who continue to stay humble and work hard towards their goals.

[@eace5078]

👀Magaijinamu 😂🤣✌💪talega brass😆

[@helpstopanimalabuse8153]

When pride comes disgrace follows soon....E. Wheeler.

[@paularavugatuvuki6351]

Mosi saraga na ketequ na dredre

[@anthonyparak3507]

Got it,!

[@19_UNITY]

vinaka tangane but what is your name man XD

[@yeanah2649]

Im not crying.....😢

[@AbdullahKhan-ud9pg]

I am 😭😭

[@Outkast-sv9es]

Oh yeah yeah😢

[@lonewarrior3733]

I'm trying not to cry like a 10 yr old girl.

[@n0wsinn]

Oh yeah yeah

[@dondgamer]

I'm not either lol

[@christinejackson3922]

This is the second time I watched this and I have cried both times

[@restlessbeing1398]

you have a heart of gold I hope you live long have a good year!

[@wgshamblz5342]

@@mufc3316 let us have our moment mate

[@baileytrapp4539]

@@mufc3316 Sivo would sit you on your head, just shut up.

[@iboss2569]

Beautiful story. Fiji Samoa Tonga. Island brotherhood.

[@elijahkila9355]

Much love from your melanesian brothers🇵🇬🇫🇯ol barata blo yu 1bel na full sapot💪

[@keepitreal1467]

Thank you for representing the Melanesisn people

[@mtee3457]

It's the story of many young Islander that leaves home to pursue a dream that isn't his alone but that of his family and of his village....a dream to help lessen the financial burden back home. Thank you VB for this and the NRL for giving them the opportunity to grace your paddocks

[@pexxxii839]

M Tee ❤️❤️

[@mosamoa6719]

I’m gonna call my dad now😢

[@leonedelana7904]

Call him while he's still breathing

[@joshski85]

There's something beautiful about people who don't speak English fluently. There's no messing around trying to be fancy with words. They just use a few words to get right to the point and it hits you in the heart. I hope he's an Eel for life! BLUE AND GOLD FOREVER!

[@jefferymatthias7794]

źVakadua......vakadua......

[@anthonyparak3507]

Off course he can, it's just that he is very humble focused and confident of his abilitie talk less more action!

[@sting1077]

Only started playing rugby league in 2015, shows how naturally gifted Fijians are since Rugby union is there national sport.

[@willnesbitt8591]

I don’t even go for the eels but sivo is huge inspiration for everyone

[@barefootmaori9017]

Kia ora my fijian brothers and sisters from NZ!

[@geronimo7834]

Another Great Story of How Remarkable and humbling Fijians are when it comes to footy . They sacrificed so much for the love of the sport . They are truly blessed with speed, skills and the raw talent that is only given to them by their belief in God. A big fan of Fijian Footy either be it 7s , 15s or NRL. I hope someday you will win the World Cup either in 15s or NRL. In 7s you are Gods of the shortened code and darlings of Hong Kong . Another thing I noticed that comes out of these beautiful archipelagos is ....they produced so many great wingers in the NRL , The likes of Nadruku , Tuqiri, Vunivalu , Koroibete, Radradra to name a few. Beautiful story indeed ....

[@ItsReverb_YT]

Thats being a Fijian. You do sacrifices but you do them to make your parents happy cause at the end of the day your parents are your everything. Being Fijian is cool as well people recognise you for it and everyone always say that Fiji is nice place that people are lovely and stuff. Its good but we do all we do today for our parents as they have sacrificed a lot for us in times and everyday working hard.

[@29qbringiton86]

God bless you maika sivo nd ur dad nd family💗frm a TONGAN TOKO!🙏🙌

[@galant13b]

ive been to fiji and let me tell you something they are amazing ppl kind and welcoming and very humble. Welcome to Australia Mr Sivo Snr hope you enjoy your stay oh and Gooooooo Paaarrraaaaaaaaa

[@RUNESCAPER123]

This is such a beautiful story, you're doing us Eels fans proud Maika

[@kiwifan6002]

This story and 'Sevens from Heaven' about the Olympic Gold medal winning Fijian Sevens team show what beautiful, humble and caring people the Fijians are. I've enjoyed watching you this season Maika and even bigger things are around the corner for you man. What a great story, thanks NRL.

[@pexxxii839]

Kiwi Fan ❤️❤️❤️

[@Lachievella]

I was at the game and saw his dad

[@LittleGirl2024]

Fellow PNGeans I cannot control my tears seeing dad. Dad my Rock.

[@brucelee6030]

Good on u mana from Samoa New Zealand and the world.

[@jaylester3689]

Though I'm not from Fiji, watching Maika's story is truly inspiring. From humble beginnings to the NRL stage is not easy. So from one Pacific Islander to another, I Congratulate you brother and May you have a long and successful career... Cheers. Greetings from Papua New Guinea.

[@roostersaredogshit366]

That story touched my heart. And I not even a eels fan I’m a rabbitohs fan. But still this story made me cry. Sivo is one of the best wingers in the game and when he first arrived to Australia he never played or knew what rugby league was but now he is the Fijian beast of rugby league he is a memorie of semi radradra. But if Maika sivo leaves rugby league and another Fijian comes through they will be the memorie of maika sivo. I will tell you what sivo learnt a lot through those 4 years.

[@ill_wilz2684]

Much love to Sivo and all the hard working Dads out there. What a great thing to watch and feel. Hell yeah I cried lol. Us islanders are just as emotional as we are physical too. All the best to Sivo and cheers for a great video VB

[@mikeoxitchy5765]

Crying makes us all human my brother...

[@joshuayoung1935]

Back in school we used to play union together, Sivo was a beast and was really the quickest on the field. I'm equally glad he has made it this far. Congratulations Maika!

[@terminusest9179]

It's amazing what NRL can do for the players themselves who went away from their families to play League.

[@vaketonga2662]

This made me cry because he has not seen his dad

[@fredmax6903]

As a Pacific Island brother 🇵🇬 🇵🇬 am so proud and my heart is dwelling. Such a proud dad smiling while his son playing wow 😮 what a glorious day. Make difference 😊 in NRL. Much love ❤️ from Papaua New Guinea 🇵🇬 🇵🇬 🇵🇬 😍😍😍🔐

[@Irongaint]

Glad you didn’t use the words Polynesian, Melanesian or Micronesian, these are labels, we are from the pacific and we share similar customs and traditions, we eat the same food, etc.

[@Navigator_Isle]

Damn I had no idea peeling red onions can make you cry too.

[@patjoan724]

When they embrace each other makes me😭😢😢

[@martinpye549]

I have spent many times in Fiji. On tour with rugby ( union) but I am a league man. Some of the most humble, appreciative people in the world. Never met a Fijian that I didn't like. Beautiful souls, amazing athletes, and a very proud nation. ooh, and their voices are sent from heaven, the men and the women.

[@martturei4684]

You are a hero and a champion bro,kia ora mai ano,play play play until you tire of the game,all fiji are proud of you,keep safe be well always.Too Awsome for words brother

[@christopherkalvale4624]

Im from PNG and just watching this humble beginning is a testament to all of us lesson to learn in life. Sivo well done brother your humble character reflects your family tradition of discipline, obedience and being humble. You are truly an inspiration to kids growing up in todays world. Top notch sivo. PNG brother

[@joe-sai-yah8896]

everytime i see this, it brings tears to my eyes, we (pacific islanders) are so close to ours families that we would do anything for them. thank you NRL for showing why we (pacific islanders) are so hard working and dedicated to what ever task is given. ni kalougata tiko nomu ni qaravi tavi vata kei na nomu fameli. :)

[@gta5skits710]

I'm a parra fan. I hope his dad being there motivates him to carry Parra to a grand final win

[@blazexav7438]

I dont even support the eels but god love this man from a fellow fijian🙌🏾👌🏽❤💪🏽

[@nafanuaseumanutafa5604]

When success in life recognize the real MVP. I’m a proud Samoan sister Sivo. Blessings and Love from the States.

[@littlekids867]

The cutest! 💙💛💙💛 So thankful someone like him plays for parramatta!

[@seruserevi5908]

Wow I had tears watching that, God bless you wantok, a father & son's bond is something else. Good on you NRL & VB for making this possible.

[@booyaa5278]

You never know any man's story till its told like this

[@joshuaai8838]

Just came across this video again and too who's cutting onions 🤧

[@1mbasic]

Pacific talents are like crops in the soil, waiting to be unearthed for harvest - respect

[@davidkaga3286]

Well done Sivo. That's a reward for your humility. Do it for your Dad and Mom, your little village, and for your country. In PNG, we support you.

[@jackbrady9738]

Sivo is so good. His dad and mum and village raised him well. Great role model.

[@chachatutti8382]

What a humble guy you are. I admire your genuine love for you parents especillay your dad. what a journey. God bless your kind heart. Believe it or not, you've touched and moved a lot of people with your story. Vinaka

[@govindjai11]

Very tearful story. Thank you VB thank you NRL. Mind you there many Sivos and Radraradra still awaiting for a chance. There is no shortage of skill in these youngsters. Please get more Fiji kids and help them. Thank you

[@SereneBliss]

Love this such an awesome and special moment for father and son God bless them and all Fijians

[@KIL0.G]

Imagine what he felt when he saw his dad ❣️

[@sabololyrics679]

You have made Fiji proud. God Bless

[@anonymousman8000]

Maika Sivo is an example for everyone he starts a life as a farmer then he is a Rugby Legend

[@gabrielschuster2442]

Just beautiful God bless to u and your family Sivo

[@NatBeez5430]

Great stuff VB 🙌🏾👍🏾

[@korro5870]

There is only that " ONLY ONE MOMENT OF OUR FIRST EXPERIENCE IN LIFE".... This one is so touching.

[@ephraimcosmas5811]

Just feeling proud of you(Maika), keep working hard.

[@林淑惠-s5l]

It’s really great that joeli can see him play in the flesh. The Fijians never give up on what they do. I really do think that Fijians are good people

[@emily-rn9ti]

He gets the recognition he deserves. His parents deserve many things. Look at this man they made

[@JerryAira-t2o]

I cried when I watched this. Its my second time watching

[@pricillamajor2890]

So proud brother all praise God bless you and your family 🙏

[@losaaripaluchannel2819]

I love Fijian people because they are so so smart at everything

[@mareiyas]

Who would dislike this??! Bula Sivo!!

[@pittchaser]

I can't understand people who would dislike this. If you didn't have a tear in your eye you're a stone cold killer.

[@hellas04gavros]

This is great ... God Bless the SIVOS. What a wonderful story! (Greetings from a Manly Sea Eagles fan)

[@cameronmani6277]

wat a story 😢 Vinaka sivo God is Good

[@suckmy-dick8406]

I love this story so much. I can never watch it without tearing up at least a little bit :,)

[@mattfromwiisports78]

Maika is such a great person and he does it all for his family

[@vaughanpower4538]

You could put sivos dad on the other wing.fergo wouldn't mind.

[@cudagabriel4554]

Killed it!

[@soaraven5226]

That’s a good one VP. 🔥🔥

[@atonioauvale1435]

😂😂❤️

[@275STB]

Man who the 🤬🤬🤬🤬 dislike this ignorant mofo’s, he’s been a revelation for the NRL potential super star🤙🏾🤙🏾🤙🏾

[@helpstopanimalabuse8153]

BASS T4 POTENTIAL superstar??

[@275STB]

Stuart Grandquist ??? You have a question ??

[@iceman8599]

Well done my tauvu God bless you and your family kalougata tiko nomu tosotoso cheers mate have a blessed one coconut milk power for life 💪🌴and not forgetting the the NFL family and VB group God bless you guys for helping out your pacific brothers VINAKA VAKALEVU 💕✊ all the way from fiji islands 😉✌

[@nianaohurn987]

This really brought me into tears❤😭..I wish all the best for you and your family Sivo💕

[@nomorecontentlollol3307]

I’m not from Fiji but this video inspires me to be like him and now he has became the reason why I love rugby

[@islanderz4life]

To the 4 that disliked the video, what the hell is your problem?

[@raonimariano2669]

Soccer players

[@LachyBird_]

What a inspirational video. Nothing compares to a man fighting and working for his family. Can tell enjoys the game and other people need to realise that this just ain't because he is a big man fighting with heart.

[@thatmusician.k5023]

This made me cry 🥺💕

[@peterd4054]

Im not gonna lie that touched my heart.

[@keleraseroa1322]

From working on a farm and growing taro to becoming one of the most try scores in nrl.That's called training hard.Sivo's parents deserve to support him.

[@nickmr4543]

Now that's a real commercial celebrating Men and Fatherhood. Take note gillette your company is still in denial. Well done VB great work VB !!!

[@gabbyt98]

Absolutely

[@midgehobbs6886]

Such a beautiful story. When you see something like that , I wonder why so many players do the wrong thing by there clubs wife’s and fans, then I realized they feel entitlement. Go work on a farm and see some of the best players come from nothing. Sivo. Reynolds and Cody walker . They take their opportunity with both hands, and let there footy do the talking. I’m proud of you all.👍

[@AleGaun]

I'm a father of two beautiful kids; and Maika's dad challenges me to be a good father. Maika, thanks a lot for honoring your dad.

[@napolionivuniquto5433]

Proud moment of the vanua va tabanivono...God bless...

[@nathanielkara1843]

Nice story...thanks to vb.... One love my malenesain brother From Papua new Guinea

[@mtb_preston6087]

What a story it made me cry

[@raym.d.1765]

What a beautiful story! Much love from Hungary, Central Europe!

[@noraamor9709]

Ur story touches my heart in million ways..it makes me miss my dad so much..love ur story so much.

[@williamwade7919]

So Good, Sivo is amazing! Dont even support Parra but that was inspiring

[@jardeanhinchliffe9349]

Absolute beauty of a story made me cry mate

[@jamesgocher5153]

I really love his story, the way he was brought over and the connection he has with his dad is just amazing, the prayers he has after every game seems so personal and how he can still strive to be better. He deserves every dollar we give him

[@BrianNewman-qt5zn]

Amazing film🙏💚💚

[@Rex2roy]

Very inspired story... Love from Vanuatu

[@josevadakunisava8402]

Emeni..sa rui vinaka na Kalou.☝🏽🙏🤚🏻God bless

[@korro5870]

Emeni. Sa vo ga na subtitle me veitaudonui kei na so na mala ni voda nei Momo😂

[@jefferymatthias7794]

EMENI ....

[@sailosivolavola1774]

Great story & great support VB!

[@richardlatu8671]

Damn of all places I chose to watch this at work. What a lovely story

[@joshuaai8838]

From time to time I come back to this video just too feel something

[@mareko6856]

Sometimes you forget how big of an impact this game can have some individuals when just watching the game. Toso Fiji! Such a feel good story. I’ll back para till they verse the bunnies! Lol

[@rileychurr5662]

This story made me cry

[@kukifilms4357]

Hes one of my inspiration.

[@isaactuirotuma2052]

His like my role model I'm just are farmer like him now I'm playing for the rugby league seniors grade 16 RABITORS in FIJI✌🌴🇫🇯

[@davidtaliai996]

I remember watching him in sydney shield when he was with mounties and thought he was way too good for park footy. Glad he's made it to the NRL. All the best Maika!

[@breakingtoast2255]

he is a Parra man all the way take us to the grand final Maika and bring it to back to Parramatta

[@TheChingChillaGod]

This story made me cry😢

[@jamalmoore4877]

This made me cry

[@jacobnime-fm1ji]

I when I watch your story I was bless,thanked the lord for all the beautiful and hard working dads