Former Nadroga and national rugby forward Peniasi Damu was in tears when his former team-mates visited him at Namatakula Village, this week.

“I cried because back in those days, camp was my second home and it was where I got to know my brothers for life,” the rugged tighthead prop said.

“I’m proud to be a Stallion and how I wished to jump back onto the pitch by looking at the young players and my former team-mates.

“It was like we can do this all over again.”

Damu, who has been sickly said, he felt that he had never been forgotten.

“When I saw them memories came flashing back as I remembered the days that I played alongside them.”

The visit is the initiative of the Nadroga Players Association, as members plan to visit former players who are sick or facing difficulties. Former Nadroga and national reps like Dale Tonawai, Emosi Vucago, Aminiasi Kanajuke, Sirilo Lala, Paula Karatu and current players were part of the group that handed over groceries to Damu’s family.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Nadroga Rugby Union president Tiko Matawalu said former players like Damu have busted their guts for the province and their welfare was important.

“These players, are mostly forgotten after their prime days and often left aside after giving their heart and love for the sport and province they represented,” he said.

“In most cases, they are only visited during funerals, but this initiative is to visit them while they can still see their brothers and share jokes and stories that might boost their life after rugby.”

Matawalu said the visit also at the same time helped motivate their young and current players to play for those who have shed sweat, blood and tears for the Nadroga jersey.

Next challenge

The former Flying Fijian prop said they are also leaving no stone unturned as they prepare to face Suva in the Skipper Cup opener on July 25.

“The match is going to be a doubleheader with the Farebrother trophy at stake,” he said.

“Suva is laced with so many talented and gifted players. Majority of them came through our system, but were able to secure work in the capital city,” he said.

“Suva being the Skipper Cup holders while we’re the Farebrother champions. It will be a cliffhanger knowing what the two teams will bring into this match.

“We are excited to get back to the pitch and the boys are looking forward to the game.”

Matawalu said they had a big respect for the Suva team and were working out ways of trying to contain the capital city ruggers.

“The boys know that there will be no space for inconsistency in all parts of their game during this match,” he added.

Edited by Leone Cabenatabua

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