RFMF IN SUKUNA BATTLE MODE
We’re there to learn from the children, says Katonibau
Sick children admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital (CWMH) were surprised yesterday by the visit of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) rugby team. The unannounced visit by the RFMF was part of their preparations on their annual rugby clash against Police. Speaking to SUNsports yesterday RFMF captain Isake Katonibau said the visit was to serve as a reminder to the players that hardship they faced in training is compared small to the trials faced by these children.
“We just wanted to take a break from the hectic training so we had to come out here and give something back to the children,’’ the former Vodafone Fijian 7s forward said. “We wanted to put a smile on the faces of all the children that are here today.
“To come out here and just to see how the children have endured the pain is really amazing.’’
RFMF manager Aseri Rokoura said the visit was a recess in the team’s hectic training schedule as they prepare to face Police on October 20 at the ANZ Stadium, Suva.
“This is more of a time-out from the training sessions and with that we’ve included community service activities which include a visit to the inmates and the children,” Rokoura said.
RAY OF HOPE
Jason Koroi Ilimotama lost all hope a week ago when he hurt his knee playing in the kaji rugby competition. His mother, Kelera Vanua, said Jason was a rugby enthusiast who followed our local teams religiously. After receiving advice from the captain and his players on his hospital bed, the nine-yearold said he was desperate to put on his rugby boots again. “He (Katonibau) just told me to be strong,” Jason said. “When I play rugby he said to not look at my sickness, I have to look at God.”
Asked who he would be supporting come the momentous encounter, he said: “I’ll be going for Army.”
BATTLE MODE
The last time Army hoisted the coveted Ratu Sukuna Bowl was in 2014.
They lock horns this year with a confident Police side who are poised to defend the title in what promises to be another fiery clash. Katonibau said: “The Police team are the defending champions and have been winning for the last two years. We’ve been preparing well for them and they’ve been preparing as well. Only time will tell.”