By Trent Slatter
TOOWOOMBA has offered more than just a chance to play footy for Coolaroo recruits Peter Nuku and Francis Ramo.
The Solomon Islanders have gained some valuable life skills as they experience the Australian culture.
Nuku and Ramo arrived in the Garden City in March on a three-month scholarship to play football with Coolaroo in the AFL Darling Downs competition.
The young men left their poverty-stricken nation with little more than the clothes on their backs but they've looked brilliant in their navy blue Coolaroo guernseys.
Both players have been among the team's best, despite coming from a country where Aussie rules isn't a major sport.
Coach Shaun Johnson said he was impressed with the way the diminutive Islanders handled the AFLDD competition.
"They're playing against guys who are much bigger than them," Johnson said.
"The average Solomon Islander is only about 75kg but they're coming up against guys who are 90kg every week.
"Just their tenacity and courage is unbelievable. For small fellas, they get up and go."
Nuku and Ramo have been billeted in Toowoomba by Jubilee Ministries which is run by Dave and Sonya Challenor.
Johnson said the ministry had played a big part in helping Nuku and Ramo feel at home in Australia.
"Jubilee Ministry has been fantastic. They've dedicated a lot of time and resources to help the boys integrate into our way of life," Johnson said.
"We've given them a bit of work experience as well. We taught them how to weld and concrete.
"It's an opportunity at life, not just football."
Nuku and Ramo were forced to return home this week when their visas expired but have been cleared to return again in two weeks to play out the rest of the season for Coolaroo.
Johnson said he couldn't wait to have the boys back on deck for what has been a great experience for all involved.
"It's probably been good for our club just to have people from a different culture," he said.
Photo: Francis Ramo in action for the Roo's against top of the table Reddies
Last Modified on 10/07/2014 11:12
