Scoring Gallipoli Cup try for the ADF golden moment for Tabuai
THE centre of the Sydney Cricket Ground on one of the most important days of the year is about as far from Saibai Island as you can get.
But stepping on to one of the most revered fields in Australian sport, and wearing the green and gold, is a moment that will forever live with David Tabuai.
It’s proof you can make it.
“If things didn’t work out the way they did, there’s every chance I’d be in the paper for the wrong reasons,” Tabuai said.
A bombardier in the Australian Army, Tabuai scored a try, had a hand in another, and played a key role in the Australian Defence Force’s win against Turkey in the Gallipoli Cup match on Anzac Day.
The annual clash is played as a curtain raiser to the traditional NRL match between the Roosters and Dragons.
This was the first time for Tabuai, who counts Cowboys sensation
Hamiso Tabuai-fidow among his nephews, started for ADF at fullback, and he has all but made the jersey his own. “It’s unreal,” Tabuai said.
“The whole occasion – there’s so much more to it than the footy. There’s such a rich history shared by the countries.
“It’s special. Then to be able to share that with footy is a bonus. To get the win was even better. But I’m always grateful for the opportunity to play for the ADF.”
Tabuai grew up on Saibai Island in the Torres Strait, but moved to Cairns at a young age with his mother. Tabuai joined the army in 2016, which has opened the door to many opportunities.
Now based at Darwin, Tabuai is proud of what he’s accomplished in the army and on the footy field.
He played for Nightcliff Dragons, was selected for the NT Titans and Combined Affiliate States, and has represented Army Thunder and the ADF.