Malo e lelei,

Team Tonga Rugby 7's together with the Chef de Mission, Takitoa Taumoepeau left Mildura yesterday. The team were farewelled at the airport by the Deputy Mayor of Mildura with a handful of Tongans and local TV and media were there. The Team also sang a farewell song and performed the "sipi tau" to the delight of the crowd.

The Rugby 7's are now settled into the Games Village and they are having their first training run today. Also joined the team in Melbourne was Tanya Daly, the Rugby 7's Physio. At this stage, there are a couple of players with a light injury but will be followed closely and assessed their progress. However, at this stage, all are fine and team spirit and morale are good.

Also confirmed for this Sunday, the team will be attending a service hosted by the Tongan community of Melbourne and to be followed by lunch. I wish to take this opportunity to thank the Mayor and City Council of Mildura and the Tongan community of Mildura for a wonderful reception and care for the team while they were there. Special mention here is extended to Soana Vaka'uta Matangi, Ane 'Ahokava, Sepi Morgan, Samanai Siale and family and all other parents and friends. Also to Kalisitiane Finau, the president of the Fale Hufanga 'o Tonga as well as the Kava Club of Kalepi and Moli, the Tautehina and Halamanga Ono.

Last but not the least the Coordinator (whom the boys related to her as their "mum", Julie Jewel. We can only say, Malo 'Aupito!

I can be contacted at 0418 543775 and I will try to assist of anything related to the Team.

Till then, 'Ofa atu

Takitoa Taumoepeau

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