Turuva’s Goal
Rising Fijian Bati utility back, Sunia Turuva, looks forward to the new season with the Penrith Panthers.
The Saunaka native arrived at Nadi International Airport yesterday, accompanied by Bati captain Kevin Naiqama, Joshua Wong and Sitiveni Moceidreke.
They are here to attend the Fiji National Rugby League 30th anniversary celebration event at the Grand Pacific Hotel (GPH) in Suva tomorrow. The Bati lost 24-18 to New Zealand in a close fought quar
terfinal in Hull, England.
“It was really enjoyable, after the Pacific Test, the boys sort of already knew each other so it just made it a lot easier to get along with them,” Turuva said.
“They were singing hymns and stuff and it was good. I was happy.”
He has set his focus on claiming the fullback berth with Panthers as they are the defending NRL (National Rugby League) Premiership champions. Turuva’s father, Pita, and mother settled in Australia where he was born and raised. He grew up with his fellow Bati teammate, Apisai Koroisau.
Naiqama on England deal
Naiqama said it was exciting to be involved in his third World Cup.
“Probably the most enjoyable one for myself was just seeing the
young boys of the squad. Many new players had that opportunity to wear the Fiji jersey and did an exceptional job. The young boys had an outstanding tournament and, you know the names that we are going to hear in the future.
“Right now that’s probably my focus for the next two years with the Huddersfield Giants. I’m happy to put my hand up for Fiji. I love playing for my country and representing the people of Fiji.”
Celebration dinner
Meanwhile, the Bati players will be joined by FNRL pioneers, former Bati reps Bulikula (national women’s) members and affiliates of the FNRL during the celebration dinner at the Grand Pacific Hotel.
The event commemorates 30 years of rugby league in Fiji and the contribution of selfless Fijians who have built up the FNRL since 1992.
FNRL chief executive officer Don Natabe said it would be a wonderful night to recognise the selfless efforts of individuals who had contributed to the sport in many significant ways.
“We will pay tribute to the pioneers of rugby league who didn’t have a rosy start in the beginning. But surely the seed that they planted back then in 1992 is what we recognise now,” he said.
“Coming out of its budding stages, but importantly it is also a time to recognise the contribution of those in our communities. Our affiliated leagues, the Fiji secondary school RL association, and a key part of what the sport is, the Rugby league referees association.”