44-year-old Englishman, Ben Ryan who led Fiji's Rugby team to Olympic
glory in Rio and delivered the island nation's first ever medal has been
rewarded with three acres of land, he has also been honoured with a traditional
chief's name, Ratu Peni Raiyani
Latianara. Fiji's gold medal, the first in the
history of the small island nation, sent shockwaves around the country -
catapulting Ryan to the level of national hero.
Ryan has already received the Companion of the Order of Fiji - the
highest honorary title that can be awarded under the Order - from Fijian
president Jioji Konrote. He received his new land and titles in a special
ceremony on Sunday with hundreds of Fiji supporters in attendance.
However, he is expected to step down from his position with the Fijian
rugby team in the coming weeks. Ryan, who was also England's rugby coach
between 2007 and 2013, has been reportedly been offered a lucrative contract by
Japan.
Source: Daily Mail
Follow Solenzo Blog on
0 Comments