This weekend, Stamford Rugby faced Oakham Rugby Football Club away in an emotional game for the host club who remembered a player who passed away on the pitch in 2016.
On Saturday 30 September, the team at ORFC marked the seventh anniversary of the passing of a teammate, military man and loving husband and father ahead of their much-anticipated game against Stamford.
Savenaca Koroibulileka passed away on the pitch at Oakham Rugby Club in 2016.
The Fijian player was much loved by those at the club and, at 38 years old, was a loving father. He was also part of the Adjutant General's Corps, which is one of the largest Corps in the British Army and provides support in the form of Military Personnel Administrators, Military Police, Military Provost Staff, Military Provost Guard Service, Educational and Training Services and Army Legal Services.
Oakham Rugby Club attracts many players from local military bases, and is a hub of culture and community, welcoming novice and experienced players from the local area.
This weekend more than most, saw this community come together to remember Savenaca Koroibulileka.
Oakham fought hard against Stamford, who beat Oakham by only four points away at the end of last season.
The final scoreline was a winner for Stamford, who scored 24 vs Oakham's 15, proving that the club remain formidable following a strong 2022/23 season last year.
Both teams came together in a real display of unity over the weekend, and stood to represent all that local and grassroots sports stand for - community, team spirit and respect.
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