Melbourne Storm visits school, excite students
VUDA District School buzzed with excitement as the Melbourne Storm team made a spirited entrance through their gates, radiating warmth with bula smiles that lit up the faces of students, teachers, and parents alike.
The infectious joy permeated the air, creating an atmosphere of jubilation within the school grounds.
The 400 students, planned a harmonious welcome, serenaded the visiting players with their melodious voices. This vibrant reception not only lifted the spirits of the players, most of whom were experiencing the country for the first time, but also lifted the team’s off-field preparation for the clash against the Knights.
Storm Centre Young Tonumaipea took centre stage to impart valuable advice to the eager students. He emphasised the significance of discipline, urging them to heed their parents’ guidance as a crucial step towards achieving success in any sporting endeavour.
With an air of humility, Tonumaipea shared the secret behind donning the purple shirts.
“If you want to wear one of these purple shirts it comes from a lot of hard work, you wake up early do a decent training and you listen to your parents, that’s number one.
“Also listen to the man upstairs because he knows what’s best for you,” Tonumaipea.
Hailing from Samoa, the 31-year-old athlete drew parallels between the power of family in his homeland and the peaceful atmosphere he sensed in Fiji.
He shared insights into the importance of familial bonds, encouraging students to appreciate and respect their parents.
“I haven’t been to Fiji but I’m from Samoa, and I understand the power of family and to be ignited as one so I’m very grateful that it’s very, very peaceful here,” he added.
“Hopefully you get to wear the purple shirt like other Fijians Sisa Waqa, Marika Koroibete, Suliasi Vunivalu and Tui Kamikamica,” he excitedly said.
The team received a the warm welcome, was met with thunderous cheers from the crowd. Adding to the day’s joy, students and teachers received Storm merchandise, marking an unforgettable and fortunate day for the Vuda District School community.