THE Vodafone Fiji Bati side has grown leaps and bounds since the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
Ashton Sims remembers the experience fondly having been one of the eight NRL players who responded to the Fiji National Rugby League’s invitation to be part of the Fiji Bati team to the RLWC.
“It was a very humble beginning camping in the army barracks in Nabua.
“We stayed with the soldiers, had breakfast and lunch with them.
“We were there for a job. But it was a good experience waking up at 5.30am for devotion and having mosquito nets at night.
“We had a good vibe from the start.”
Sims, sometimes called Thor because of his hairstyle and looks, said 2013 was also a good experience where the template for the Fiji Bati side was still the same —— devotions and meals together.
“We were just like one big family and we have a similar set up this year,” he said.
And the sacrifices they made then, Sims said, had helped the sport develop in Fiji.
“The popularity has lifted since 2008.
“There are a good number of Fijians who playing now and even in union.
“And we are absolutely privileged to be representing all the islands in Fiji.”
Sims has been growing his hair in 2013 and may have a trim before he runs out today on the field at Townsville Stadium against USA.
And while he is amused with Fijians calling him Thor, he added that it would be nice if Thor lifted the Rugby League World Cup in December.
