The appointment of Fiji Bati hooker Api Koroisau as captain of the Wests Tigers has brought pride to the sport of rugby league in Fiji.
Don Natabe, the acting CEO of the Fiji National Rugby League, did not mince his words when he said it was a proud moment for the sport to have someone in the calibre of Koroisau to captain a National Rugby League club.
He is the second Fijian to captain an NRL club following on from former Bati skipper and Kaiviti Silktails chairman Petero Civoniceva who led the Penrith Panthers during the 2008 NRL season.
“We are proud of Api’s achievement having been named as captain of the Tigers,” Natabe told this newspaper.
“He’s well respected in the Bati and is already part of the leadership team alongside Kevin (Naiqama), Bill (Viliame Kikau), and Tui (Kamikamica).”
The appointment of Koroisau was done at the Tigers official season launch at Iron Cove, where more than 300 VIP guests had the chance to mingle with their team, NRL.com reported.
The three-time NRL premiership-winner with the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Penrith Panthers has enjoyed his first few months at his new club and is thrilled to become the team’s leader.
“To be asked to lead this team in my first year at the club, means a lot,” said Koroisau.
“This is a terrific group of players, and I am honoured to be their captain.
“From the moment I joined this club, my family and I have been made to feel so welcome.
“It’s been a great start to my time as a Wests Tigers player and I look forward to helping this team and this club be the best it can be.”
Coach Tim Sheens said Koroisau was a natural leader.
“We have several very capable leaders in this team, and Api is one of them,” said Sheens.
“He is very well respected within the group, and I know he’ll do a great job.
“I congratulate him on earning the role.”
