NEW Zealand born turned Irish rugby player Jeremy Manning is raising his hand to be part of the Fiji Rugby Union 7s or 15s coaching panel if the need arises.
Manning, 30, who is now based in Abu Dhabi, was awarded the Officer of the Order of Fiji medal by the President Jioji Konrote for his efforts in finetuning the national 7s teams kickers especially in drop kicks and kick-offs.
“I’ve also said to a few people that I’d love to come back, to help out with the 7s or 15s if they need help on their kicking areas and stuff like that. I’d drop whatever I’m doing and come back,” Manning said.
Manning has been in the country for a total of six weeks and is one of those that diligently worked behind the scenes resulting in the national 7s team winning a gold medal at the Rio Olympic Games.
“Since Ben Ryan took over I’ve been working with him in the kicking and just to see the progress that we’ve gone through over the last few years it’s just phenomenal,” Manning said.
“For me to see that happening and to make the coach smile and to actually see the hard work I’ve put in is benefiting the team and the players, it’s really enjoyable.”
He said he never expected to be rewarded for his efforts and like any coach they do what they do best with passion and not as a favour.
“You do what you do for the success of the team and the nation, and to get something (Order of Fiji medal) like this is a very very important day for me, a moment that I will never forget so it’s just wonderful,” he said.
