VODAFONE Fiji Bati and Overseas Bati player for Saturday’s Battle of the Bati in Suva, Maurice Kennedy united his Australia and Fijian families at the Coral Coast in Sigatoka yesterday when he wedded his sweetheart Binawea Parker.
The wedding was held at the Outrigger on the Beach Resort.
The union of the families was the talk of family members because the nippy dummy half who is trying a hand at being selected for the Rugby League World Cup in Australia, brought them together.
Kennedy, is from Dratabu in Nadi, but was born and raised in Australia.
His father Tim said: “Today is a very good day for the family as we return to Fiji for the wedding of my son Maurice. I am happy that he decided to return to his origin for this very important day,” Tim said.
“I am pleased that his decision has brought all our families from abroad and here in Fiji together for this occasion. His bloodline is from Dratabu, Nadi, but he was born in Australia. He is registered in the Vola ni kawa bula.
“He started playing rugby league with his twin brother John when they were five years old. They played for the Manly Seas Eagles under-16 and Saint George Illawarra Dragans U18 Toyota Cup, then to Redcliff and now Mounties which is a feeder club for Canberra Raiders.”
Tim was also a former Manly Marlins rugby union player and played alongside renowned former international Willie Ofahengaue.
Maurice will be among the dummy halves in the Battle of the Bati tomorrow at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.
The wedding was attended by Ratu Meli Saukuru, Fiji Bati reps Junior Roqica and Henry Raiwalui, family members and friends.
“I am happy that he has put his hands up to represent Fiji.
“He had always wanted to play for the Fiji Bati and had always said that he would play for all his families and do his best if selected.”
Maurice Kennedy, born 16 October 1988.
Roqica said: “He is a versatile dummy half and great player to play with. He has represented Fiji three times and if included he would add boost to the Fiji Bati.”
