Memories of Mosese live on for the Tigers
THE memory of Keebra Park State High School product Mosese Fotuaika still looms large for Wests Tigers and sits heavy in the heart of his former teammates.
When the Tigers and Parramatta run out at ANZ Stadium on July 23, both will replace their front-of-jersey sponsors with the logo of the Stay Kind initiative.
Much of the build-up will focus on Mitchell Moses’ first appearance against his former club but the Tigers are attempting to use the game as a vehicle to deliver a message about suicide which resonates deeply with many at their Concord headquarters.
Stay Kind was established in memory of Stuart Kelly – the brother of one-punch victim Thomas Kelly – who took his own life after persistent bullying and death threats.
Suicide, in particular youth suicide, is an issue that cuts close to the bone with the Tigers players and management.
In 2013, they were devastated after Fotuaika, a promising young front-rower who had just been elevated to the full-time NRL squad, took his own life hours after injuring himself in the gym.
“I think this is why the Wests Tigers wanted to jump on board (with Stay Kind), we’ve had a past with that with Mosese back in 2013,” Tigers skipper Chris Lawrence said.
“With football clubs, and society in general, it’s a massive issue that needs more attention.
“If this is some small way we can shine a little light on it, it’s our little bit.”
Fotuaika was a part of the club’s 2012 under-20s grand final win and many former teammates are still at the club.
Halfback Luke Brooks said Fotuaika’s death had left a lasting imprint on many at the Tigers and they were hoping the July 23 game could help shape attitudes and save lives.