VODAFONE FLYING FIJIANS
PRESENT THEIR ITATAU
Our ancestors have always welcomed battles. That psyche has now transformed to our love of competition. And, we definitely love winning! Jioji Konrote President of Fiji
The Vodafone Flying Fijian squad and officials presented their i-tatau (traditional farewell) to President Major General (Ret’d) Jioji Konrote at State House in Suva yesterday.
And the President reminded them that they need to be battle ready when they face the Wallabies in Melbourne on Saturday.
President Konrote said they is no reason why the John McKee-coached side can’t beat the Wallabies as we already defeated them twice in 1952 and 1954.
“I would like to congratulate you all for the selection into our national team and also would like to commend the work of the coaches and officials for getting you ready.
“I hope you deliver the best for Fiji both on and off the field,” he said
“Rugby has become synonymous with Fiji. It has grown to become our main sport. Initially the growth was largely subconscious because
as a warrior nation, our ancestors have always welcomed battles.
“That psyche has now transformed to our love of competition. And, we definitely love winning!
“As a former player, I have been following our rugby teams’ performances with great interest.
I am aware that Fiji has beaten Tier One nations like Italy, Scotland, Argentina, Wales, and Australia too - the latter on two occasions: first in 1952 with a 17-15 scoreline, and 18-16 in 1954. Both games were at the Sydney Cricket Ground.
“I mention these achievements because I believe we can still win over Tier One nations. They may have all the resources at their disposal, but we have one thing that is within our control – an indomitable fighting spirit. And, we don’t necessarily need money to develop this spirit.
“It is now time to put on your battle gear and perform to the best of your ability.
“I am always honoured to receive, on behalf of Government and the people of Fiji, all our national sporting teams as they present their iTatau.
“You are all fully aware, our nation virtually grinds to a standstill whenever a Fiji national rugby team runs onto the paddock, irrespective of the code.
“I wish to advise that you are not alone in your efforts to stamp our mark in the international arena.
“I say to you that you can certainly win over Australia next week, Italy, Scotland, Tonga and Samoa in the next few weeks, as we buildup towards the 2019 Rugby World Cup. “I encourage you to be great ambassadors for Fiji both on and off the field, and fly our flag with pride.”