Wearing the Vodafone Fiji Bati jersey holds significant meaning for hooker Kurt Donoghoe, extending beyond national representation. It has enhanced his connections to his family, as the last time he visited Fiji for a family reunion was at the age of 12. Now, 12 years later, he finds himself playing in front of them.
The 22-year-old hooker, who earned his eligibility for the Bati through his paternal grandmother from the Thaggard family in Savusavu, is relishing every moment of his time in Fiji. He made his debut for the Bati in the Pacific Bowl Championship in Papua New Guinea last year.
“I definitely feel closer to the jersey this year playing in Fiji,” he stated. “I got to meet some family that I’ve never met before, which was pretty cool. Playing in front of them and receiving my jersey after the game really made me feel more connected to Fiji, in contrast to my experience in Papua New Guinea last year. Being here has made it much more special as I get to see this side of my family.”
Although Donoghoe has close friends on the Cook Islands Aitu team, he is focused on the upcoming match. He anticipates a challenging game. “I think it’ll be a good game; they gave us a good run last year,” he remarked. “It’s going to be an exciting match, and it will definitely be close. They’ve been building from last year and have a stronger side now, so they’ll be coming for us after our recent game.”
The match is set to kick off at 8:10 PM at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. Donoghoe has signed a one-year contract with the Dolphins and made his NRL debut in Round 1 of the 2023 season against the Sydney Roosters. He has re-signed with the club through the end of 2025 and played a total of 10 matches in the 2024 NRL season, with the club finishing 10th on the points table.