“We have a lot of Fijian members in our club, so this week is about immersing ourselves in the culture while also remembering that we still have a game to play,” he said.

The captain of the Melbourne Storm stated that he is as enthusiastic to run out for the first time in 2024 as he is to learn more about Fijian culture.

“We’re looking forward to it because we’ve been going hard in preseason training and we can’t wait to play.”

“Coming back to my homeland is such an awesome feeling, especially for myself because growing up in Fiji we love rugby,” Kamikamica remarked.

It’s been a long time coming, but I can’t wait to perform in front of my family and friends. I last performed in front of them twelve years ago,” he remarked.

“It’s such a big deal…I couldn’t stop smiling when it was announced last year,” he remarked.

“Every time I come back to Fiji I get to see the smiles on the kid’s faces and now they get to see all the superstars…all the big names in the league,” he said.

The club has a strong history of players with Fijian heritage making an impact at the club, Tariq Sims, Isaac Lumelume, Suliasi Vunivalu, Marika Koroibete, Sisa Waqa, Semi Tadulala, Aseri Laing and Kamikamica all pulling on the purple jersey.

Particularly Waqa, Koroibete, and Vunivalu made a lasting impact on the team; together, the Fijian fliers scored more than 150 tries for the team.

The second trial match of the Melbourne Storm season will take place on Saturday at 1:45 pm and be televised live on Fox League and Kayo.

Image courtesy of Sun Waisea Nasokia of Fiji