MARIST FC new signing Henry Fa’arodo Jr says he is committed to help his new club in their pursuit to defend the Telekom S-League title this year.
The evergreen footballer was on the champions’ radar after the recent OFC Champions League and on Tuesday he officially signed the deal.
“As one door closes another opens and I am so grateful that Marist have so much faith in me.
“They have been on my back since after the last O-League and I feel I can commit to them and help them in their football endeavours.
“I am looking forward to this new challenge and I hope I will deliver in any way I can. This is football – as I know it.
“Marist seems a bit more professional in their approach. And I really admire that. Since I was involved in the professional system for over 10yrs I am excited at being part of this club. I think they have set the standard for al clubs to follow,” Fa’arodo told Star Sports.
The iconic sportsman had two season stints with Western United and led the men in orange at the recent OFC Champions League in Auckland.
He officially acknowledged his former club after signing his latest deal on Monday.
“In the midst of the latest signing with Marist FC, I would firstly like to thank Western United and most especially Reggie and Choi Douglas for supporting and assisting me in joining the club since 2015. Your generosity is more than I expected,” he said.
Fa’arodo also expressed his gratitude of working under the leadership of former international team mate Commins Menapi.
“To Commins and the coaching staff, thank you for giving me an opportunity to be part of your team and I have learnt a lot from you and Jacob as well,” he added.
The national midfielder led his former club in the O-League and pays tribute to his former team mates standout performances against the Auckland City.
“To the players – you guys have been great. I have so much respect for you guys and I did have a good time just being around you guys.
“We had a good O-League campaign pushing the mighty Navy Blues to the limit. So you guys should be proud of yourselves. To the management staff – thank you for your time and assistance in terms of logistic stuff. I know I did expect a lot from you guys, but you guys did eventually deliver,” he stated.
He also thanked United fans and wish the club all the best in the new season.
“To all the fans and supporters of the orange army. Thank you very much for your support which is priceless. You have given your time to come and support the team week in and week out and I am grateful for that.
“Thank you very much to everyone. I know that Western United have bigger better plans for this coming season. I feel I have to give way for others to carry the club to the next level,” Fa’arodo stressed.
By SIMON ABANA