Catholic priest named in ‘Ikale Tahi’s Churchill Cup Squad

Fr. Tomasi Sili of the Marists Brothers, called to the Ikale Tahi squad for the Churchill Cup

© Tevita Motulalo

It’s been usual practice that men of the cloth accompany national sports teams when they embark on foreign tour. They help in spiritual guidance, and are a central figure of respect that unite the team.

But, sometimes there’s always an exception to the rule.

The selectors of the ‘Ikale Tahi have called on Father Tomasi Sili of the Marists Brothers, not to be the chaplain for the upcoming Churchill Cup tour to the UK, but as a spearhead for the ‘Ikale Tahi backline, playing as outside centre.

Father Sili was only recently ordained in December last year after graduating with a Bachelors of Divinity from Marist College in Bomana,PNG.

Marists Regional Superior in Tonga, Fr. ‘Anaua Finau says he is awaiting approval of Fr. Sili to join the team, from the order’s directors in Fiji.

“But it is highly likely,” he told Tonga Chronicle.

He also said it is also an opportunity for Fr. Sili to extend his missionary work on the international rugby arena.

At 28 years of age, Fr. Sili has a notable rugby record. He played the same position in ‘Api Fo’ou College’s reputable team of 2000, that thrashed rivals with airtight goal line security against formidable foes like Tonga College and Toloa, allowing only one try for the whole inter-college season.

Fr. Sili has also represented Tonga internationally.

“Its great, I think I can take it,” Fr. Sili told Tonga Chronicle.

He is currently recovering from a mild knee injury when the Marists Longoteme recently clashed with the Kolofo’ou Lions the week before last.

During a break from his studies in 2004, Sili was in Tonga and played for the Marists in the Lavengamalie Cup.

He was approached to join the ‘Ikale Tahi squad then, but he couldn’t leave his studies.

According to Ikale Tahi Coach Isitolo Maka, Fr. Sili was the second best option after the expected second five ‘Amanaki Kefu was taken down with injury.

“Tomasi [Sili] still retains his calibre as a top class player,” Maka said.

Fr. Sili is from Haveluliku.

The Churchill squad is also included in the Coach’s full squad for the World Cup in September.