Inside the Fijian rugby league camp

Here is his first hand re-cap of the day:

I was invited into the camp by Port Kembla Blacks inspirational leader James Storer to experience what being inside an international rugby league team’s camp is all about.

At the start of the day, I walked with the squad from the team hotel to their training park - Richie Benaud Oval in Parramatta, getting to know some of the players.

It was apparent from the outset that the mood was very jovial and all the boys were very pleased to be in each other’s presences - while also making me feel very welcome.

In particular, Gerringong-product Korbin Sims and I chatted about our South Coast roots and how it paved the way for him to get where he is today.

Once at the ground, the boys prepared themselves for training before head coach Mick Potter, Petero Civoniceva and the rest of the coaching staff put the squad through their warm-ups.

Being the captain’s run, the squad only practiced their ball work, set plays and general cohesion, as seen in the videos.

Following training, the most uplifting part of the session - the Fijian Hymn - took place and it was a very moving experience to witness first hand - as there was plenty of passion on display.

I then had the pleasure of chatting to South Coast’s Storer and Sims as well as rugby league legend Civoniceva.

Following the session, the boys joined the Samoan team in the pool for recovery before a quick bite to eat for lunch.

As the boys had the rest of the afternoon off, I thanked Storer and the boys for the opportunity and wished them good luck against Tonga.