We are custodians of the jersey, Pita Godinet

By Nefertiti Matatia 20 October 2017, 12:00AM

It is more than just wearing a blue and white jersey for Pita Godinet. 

What matters to him is who owns the jersey.

“We are not the owners of these jerseys we are just the custodians,” said Pita Godinet.

Despite having a background career built on other successful and thriving rugby clubs in New Zealand and England, when he was playing for the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats; Godinet, the young man from the villages of Aleisa and Satuimalelufilufi, bleeds blue all the way.

This son of Samoa wears the jersey with so much gratitude and he does not waste any opportunity given to him every time he puts it on.

“It means everything to me,” he said. 

“Every time I get selected I am always proud to be part of this team. And I don’t take it for granted because I know that a lot of boys put their hands out wanting to represent this jersey.”

Being able to represent Samoa in the World Cup is always a remarkable experience for the Toa Samoa senior player and it is not just him that is humbled every time this opportunity is given it’s his family too.

“For me and my family, we feel honoured and privileged every time that I am able to represent Samoa and put on the Jersey because it has helped me start my career in the national rugby league,” he said.

The 29-year-old made his debut in the Toa Samoa in 2010 and he is happy to see new faces in the squad and he acknowledges them for being available and being keen to join the Samoan team.

“It’s awesome that all the young boys have put their hand up to represent their heritage and culture. As we all know our families will be happy and proud of the boys who will be able to play for Samoa and also our country will be happy to see new blood come into the team.”

Preparations towards the world cup, Pita believes, starts from bonding with the boys and getting to know the other player a bit more.

He added the Toa Samoa team aimed to create history in this world cup and they were not just there to make the numbers.

The Toa Samoa team will be leaving the country for New Zealand this weekend and Pita Godinet is grateful to the people of Samoa for allowing him to wear their Jersey to the Rugby League World Cup.

“I would like to thank the people of Samoa everywhere in the world and everybody here in the country for their support. It means a lot to us to represent Samoa and I know that the boys will do you proud,” he said.

By Nefertiti Matatia 20 October 2017, 12:00AM
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