For Suva Grammar School’s winning Vodafone Super Deans coach Epeli Osborne, the celebrations have continued well beyond the final whistle, with the strong bond among his players making the victory even more special.
While speaking on fijivillage Play with Pate Narawa, Osborne says the celebrations have continued in a way that reflects the special bond formed among the players throughout the season.
He says the togetherness within the team has extended beyond the rugby field, with some of the players still staying together, while Osborne has several of his players at home with him.
For Osborne, he says that is a sign of the strong camaraderie that has developed among the players.
He says it shows the kind of brotherhood and friendship the players have built and they have become more than just teammates.
Osborne knows exactly how special the achievement is, having experienced success from both sides of the game.
However, he says winning as a coach carries a completely different feeling from winning as a player.
He says as a player, the focus is largely on what happens on the field and as a coach, however, the victory represents the hard work, sacrifices and commitment of an entire group of young men who trusted the process and believed in one another.
He thanked God for guiding them through the journey, while also acknowledging the important role played by Suva Grammar’s old scholars and the parents.
Their encouragement, time and support helped create an environment in which the young players could focus on their rugby while knowing they had an entire community behind them.
He says judging by the fact that some of the players are still together after the final whistle, the bond created by this Grammar Under-18 side is likely to last long after the celebrations end.
