As the 2015 NRL season came to an end, a new era begins for Newcastle Knights winger, Akuila Uate.

The FIjian flyer married his long-time sweetheart, Samantha Maton, yesterday at the Warwick Resort and Spa on the Coral Coast.

Also present were NRL/Vodafone Fiji reps  andbrothers, Wes and Kevin Naiqama.

Plagued with injuries for the past two seasons, the refreshed Votua, Nadroga, native hopes to set the 2016 season alight.

“I’m hoping for a better 2016 after being hit with injuries now and again,” he said.

“It will depend on how I’m performing as it’s all up to what you do I hope to train hard and don’t get injured for the next season.

“I urge all young Fijians to work hard and train hard if you’re to achieve your dreams.”

Uate’s wife Samantha is fully committed to their relationship.

“I don’t have to do much as he has a good mindset,” she said.

“I’ll back him since his attitude is right and at the end of the day, I will be there with my kids to greet him. I am proud of him.”

Brothers Wes and Kevin were equally proud to be at Uate’s big day.

“It is a big day for him and it’s great to be part of this as e were like brothers and it’s a big occasion for us. To see where they are now is a blessing and I am really happy for them,” said Kevin who plays for the West Tigers in the NRL.

They were with Uate when he moved to Australia.

“We’re happy for him and we wish him all the best,” Wes said.

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