31/08/2026
FRANKLIN PROUD TO REPRESENT HIS MOTHER’S MOTHERLAND
For Brisbane-based Nicholas Franklin, earning the opportunity to represent Fiji at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship in Samoa is about much more than football.
The 18-year-old Junior Bula Boys midfielder has Fijian and Irish heritage, with his mother hailing from Suva and his father from Ireland, while the family resides in Brisbane, Australia.
Speaking to Fiji FA Media, Franklin said he was proud to have the opportunity to represent his mother's homeland on the international stage.
“I am really proud to be part of my mother’s motherland and to have the opportunity to represent Fiji,” Franklin said.
“It means a lot to me and my family. My mum is from Fiji, so being able to come into the national team and represent where she comes from is something very special for me.”
Franklin said joining the Junior Bula Boys had also given him an opportunity to connect more closely with his Fijian heritage.
“Growing up in Brisbane, Fiji has always been part of my family through my mum, and now football has given me this opportunity.”
“I am enjoying being with the boys and being part of the team. Everyone has welcomed me and I am proud to wear the Fiji jersey.”
Franklin has developed his football in Brisbane and currently features for Eastern Suburbs, gaining valuable experience in the competitive Queensland football environment.
His journey into the Junior Bula Boys setup came as the Fiji U19 coaching panel widened its search for eligible overseas-based players ahead of the Oceania championship.
He impressed during the selection process and eventually secured his place in the final 23-member squad for Samoa.
Franklin said being selected was a special moment but knows earning a place in the squad is only the beginning.
“I am grateful for the opportunity that the coaches have given me. Now I just want to work hard, give my best for the team and contribute whenever I get the opportunity.”
“Representing a country is a big responsibility. Every time I get the chance to wear the Fiji jersey, I want to give everything I have.”
At just 18, Franklin is hoping the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship will be another important step in his development.
Having grown up playing in Australia, he also brings a different football experience into a Junior Bula Boys squad featuring locally and overseas-based players.
But for Franklin, the greatest significance remains the connection to his mother's homeland.
“I know my family is proud, especially my mum. For me to represent Fiji and her motherland is something we will always remember.”
From Brisbane to Samoa, Franklin's journey with the Junior Bula Boys is giving him an opportunity to pursue his football ambitions while strengthening a special connection with his Fijian roots.
And for the 18-year-old, there could be no greater motivation than making his family and his mother's homeland proud.
