We have arrived

Firstly parents, apologies for the delay in posting, Internet issues here in the pacific.

Even though Fiji is only a short flight away our day was long with travel. The incoming flight from Fiji in the morning was late, meaning our departure was late, a quick introduction to "Fiji Time" for the side. Our late arrival, along with traffic delays and security checks meant we were not arriving to Uprising Resort until nearly 10pm. The buffet meal was a welcome sight with all players hitting the local buffet hard with multiple plates before a well earned rest.

The side has set some standards and a code that they are going to "live" by on this trip, punctuality, unity and purpose being on the agenda. Pleasingly, the boys got themselves up and to training, showing that they are willing to action their words. Long may this continue! 

After a team training run and a buffet breakfast, the boys got ready for the game. Wellness tests, incorporating surveying boys physical and emotional well being been used to add to the professional nature of getting players ready for games. 

Today we were hosted by Marist High School, a diverse Catholic school in Suva, where we were very warmly welcomed and hosted. Boys attended class and made many new friends in their interactions before their game.

The game was set up with 4 short quarters, designed to assist with Marist culling their 45 players down to a smaller squad while also allowing all Trinity boys to get some field time in this international friendly.

Congratulations to Marist who were too strong on the day. Trinity put in a good showing in the first two quarters, dominating possession though not converting this into points on the board. Unfortunately, the third and fourth quarters were heavily dominated by Marist who were too big and powerful, must have been their diet of taro and cassava! 

A special side note was that the Prime Minister of Fiji Mr Frank Bainimarama who's grandson played in the team, came and watched the game. Some quick thinking by the Friends of Rugby gave a Trinity lapel pin as a vote of thanks to him. Both Anthony Jones and Mr John Corias (Head of Friends of Rugby) were interviewed by local TV on separate days, creating more social interest in the Trinity tour.

After the game the friends of Marist put together a wonderful evening of song friendship and food, making all supporters and players feel very welcome. Some gifts were exchanged