By GABRIEL KATUHO
HUNTERS captain Ila Alu is thankful for the support and assistance he has received during his rugby league career as he approaches his 100th game this weekend.
Alu expressed his gratitude for his milestone achievement and highlighted the tough journey he had come through.
“It is a privileged and honor to play 100 games for this beautiful club and I’m not thinking too much of the game but I am concentrating, making sure our preparation is right ahead of the game,” he stated.
The Hunters will clash with Central Queensland Capras in round 17 of the Hostplus Cup this weekend.
Alu said his biggest goal was to play for PNG Kumuls and was fortunate to represent the Kumuls during the Pacific Test last year.
“I thank God that I put on the national colours last season and never thought I would play 100 games for this club,” he said.
“All glory and honour go back to God who placed individuals around my life particularly my parents, my family, my beautiful wife, my mentor Nelson Stone and everyone.
“I have come to understand that achieving your dream is one part of the Journey, and being able to live with for as long as you can, was always his challenge.”
In every game the formidable forward tries to put his body in line with fellow forward pack to help gain meters in the field of play, allowing the backline to have complete the sets.
Encountering challenges and going through adversities was his motivation to remain consistent in his form by investing efforts in his training and wellbeing.
“Hunters has shaped me to be where I am now so I am truly grateful for all the ups and downs, especially the downs. For they have all given me the strength to rise above and be the better version of myself which has brought me to where I am now,” Alu said.
“I did not give up, it took me a long time to kept trying, it was not easy but at the end of the day as long as we are alive, we keep on trying and God rewards people according to his own timing,” he stated.
Alu also hailed his team’s performance last week, which saw Hunters bounce back from three consecutive loses with a convincing 34-16 win over Blackhawks. He is looking forward to leading the Hunters against the Capras, which is expected to field several PNG stars, including Morea Jnr, Nickson Put and Valentine Richard.