Tragedies behind Fifita’s decision to quit Wakefield
WAKEFIELD TRINITY star David Fifita has revealed that recent tragedies is one reason why he is heading home to Australia after seven years.
The cult-hero prop helped Trinity avoid relegation with a typically barnstorming display in Thursday’s 18-6 win against Hull KR.
It was his final home appearance at Belle Vue, where the larger-than-life ‘Big Bopper’ has been such a crowd favourite.
Wakefield, who visit champions St Helens on Monday before finishing at Huddersfield next Friday, hoped to keep him for another season.
But Fifita says the death of eight-year-old Trinity fan Isla Greenwood from leukaemia and Jack Kirmond
– brother of ex-Wakefield captain Danny – following an attack, has reminded him of the importance of family.
“It was a late decision and only a week or two ago when I made it,” he said.
“I spoke to the family.We’ve been through a tough month with a few losses in the family and losses with people over here – Isla hit me hard with how young she was – and then what Danny Kirmond’s gone through with his brother. I just feel the time is right to get back home.
“It’s going to be tough to walk away from this.
“There’s been plenty of opportunities to go to your so-called bigger teams, but I love this club through and through. I was emotional at the end. That’s the best feeling I’ve had.
“I give so much credit to the fans – I’ve never known anything like that and what a great feeling to top it off with two points and safety.”
Fifita had the crowd in raptures as he unexpectedly kicked a conversion near the end and then joined them in the stands.
There have been persistent rumours his twin brother, Andrew, below, the former Kangaroos prop who is finishing at Cronulla Sharks, would join him at Belle Vue. But that reunion is now likely to take place somewhere in Australia.
Fifita said: “Last year it was done. I had him coming.
“Even this year we’ve talked about it with [Trinity CEO] Michael Carter and everyone and I’m sure it was over the line. But it’s more my wife and family now.
“My brother has just come out and said he wants to play one last year.
“If it’s playing A grade or some sort of footy, I just want to play with him.
“I want to play in front of my family back home rather than them just seeing film. If it’s junior league, it’s junior league.
“I’m excited for the next chapter and my wife and kids growing up with their cousins.
“I’ve got nieces and nephews I haven’t met yet.”