Kickin’ it, Old School style

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 21 February 2017, 12:00AM

These Old Boys’ proved they still have the magic.  

At the weekend, one of the highlights of the 29th Vailima Marist International Sevens was the Golden Oldies Touch Challenge. 

Men of a certain age showed the youngsters how it’s really done in what was a real ‘touch and go’ event. 

At the same time, they added some fun to the Challenge with some interesting interpretations of “Touch”.  

These gentlemen were seen putting their fellow players through gaps, nimbly sidestepping, stiff arming and generally reliving their glory days on the field. 

Probably one of the oldest men who laced up his rugby boots was Sapau Lolesi Vitale, who is closing in on 80 years of age this year.

Mr. Vitale sported the green jersey for 30 years before hanging up his boots.

Even at his great old age, he was undeterred and seen running up and down keeping pace with men half his age. 

Joining him, was head coach of the Satalo team, SOI Lalovi- Lome, who was a dominant force on the field. 

Another stand out player was , Salausa Dr. John Ah Ching, Associate Minister for the Minister of Helth, who traded in his doctor’s scrubs for rugby gear and boots.  

And even though it was billed as a Touch challenge, some players took it seriously and the physicality got more and more intense as the game went on. 

The men finished off in good spirits and held a prize giving ceremony off the field. 

By Sina Filifilia Seva’aetasi 21 February 2017, 12:00AM
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