After spending almost a week here in the Nation’s capital, both the Kiria-Ratu sisters seem very humbled by the experience.
Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG recently at the Rugby League Gala Day at the Southside Stadium in Kaugere with kids from the St. Joseph’s Primary school, both Chantay and Annemarie were surprised by the hospitality shown by the locals during their stay.
Accompanied by members of the Cook Islands men’s team, the Kuki’s and Vaine Moana took time off from their training schedule to rest while spending part of the morning imparting general knowledge and skills to the kids.
Despite the heat, both girls say it’s an experience in itself to come here to represent their home the Cook Islands.
“Just loving it. We’ve been to one of the villages. They were very welcoming people, happy and just loving us Cook Islanders. Always waving at us, it’s very good and we’re loving the experience,” said older sibling Chantay.
Getting back to the footy, both girls say that getting to play for their nation is a great achievement for both and to playing on the international stage is a great way to promote women’s sport in the region.
“Yeah, for sure and getting to play for our nation is something special I think and getting to showcase our skills is something that we can promote, especially our nation,” said Chantay.
For young Annamarie, this will be her first test cap as a Moana, and she says it’s very exciting and she’s lucky enough to play in the national team along with her sister and in a team of talented footballers.
Both sisters have been named to start in the first 13, Annamarie will take the reins at Fullback while Chantay has been named to start at Five-Eight.