New Zealand soccer boss praises SI U20 players for good deed

New Zealand Soccer CEO Graham Seatter has written to the Solomon Islands Football Federation President Martin Alufurai to inform him of a good deed performed by two members of the national Under 20 team in Auckland early this year.

Seatter revealed they recently received a phone call from a member of the New Zealand public following on from the participation of the Solomon Islands Men's team in the Oceania U20 qualifying tournament held in Auckland.

He says the team was based at the Poenamo Hotel on Auckland's North Shore and it was during their stay that Mr. Graeme Rattray and his friend Mr. Pat Tutara (both disabled) were also in residence at the Poenamo.

Mr. Seatter says Tutara suffered a fall and found himself on the floor of his unit. His friend Mr. Rattray attempted to help him regained his footing but was unsuccessful.

It was in that instance that two Solomon Islanders came to the aid of these gentlemen and helped them up.

"They were extremely polite and helpful and even returned to the unit the next day to enquire about Mr. Tutara's health. The management of the Solomon Islands team were also courteous and concerned in their interest."

Mr. Rattray went on to say that these players had renewed his faith in young men of today and both he and Mr. Titara would like to extend their best wishes to all involved for every success in the future.

"We felt this act needed to be recognized and on behalf of everyone at New Zealand Soccer and Messrs Rattray and Tutara extend our personal thanks for such a kind and thoughtful act. Too frequently sports teams are lamented for bad or disruptive behaviour and we congratulate you on having such fantastic ambassadors for your sport."

Source: SIFF