Jordan Rapana said an emotional goodbye to the Canberra Raiders, his “home” team, in preparation for joining Hull FC in the Super League.
With 106 tries in 214 games, the 35-year-old winger—who can also play fullback—left Canberra after spending 11 seasons in the Australian capital.
In their penultimate game of the season, Rapana suffered a fractured cheekbone in what turned out to be his final game with his beloved Raiders.
In an interview with Canberra’s official social channels, Rapana grinned and said, “It wasn’t ideal with how it finished.” “I would have preferred to see the boys play that final game against the Dragons and end the season strong, but that’s football; it is what it is, and it probably fits the way I ended.”
I feel that playing my final game as a Raider was somewhat suitable because I play with my heart on my sleeve and give everything, but our family is eager for the next challenge and adventure, so I really can’t wait to get over there.
Jordan Rapana remembers the Canberra Raiders’ tenure with the utmost affection.
Rapana, an international player for the Cook Islands and New Zealand who has competed in three World Cups, will join Hull when preseason training gets underway later this year.
In his goodbye address to the Raiders, Rapana also expressed his want to be known at the team as the “ultimate competitor” and as someone who “never said die.” These remarks are sure to inspire Hull supporters as they look forward to 2025 and John Cartwright’s new era.
Rapana remarked, “I think I was someone who never said die and the ultimate competitor.”
“It seems like my goal has always been to be the player that other players want to play with, and I was a player who exuded green energy at all times.
Every child’s desire is to play in the first grade, so I talk to some of the younger lads who are coming through at the age of 18 or 19, and they really want to play. As for me, I guess I was 24 or 25 when I made my Raiders debut. To put into perspective, I’ve played 214 games so I always try to remind the young boys you’ve got tonnes of time. After such a lengthy absence, I eventually found a place to call home in Canberra, which was like a lifeline, and I’ve had an amazing time and career here. It will be missed by me.
“The supporters have been tremendous for the team and for me, and I can’t thank them enough. I have thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my career thus far, and I am incredibly grateful to all of the Raiders’ supporters, including the club’s sponsors. They’ve all contributed in some manner, and because of them, I’ve truly enjoyed my stay in Canberra.
“It is impossible to pass the Viking Clap. I still get the same tingles down my spine, just as I had from the beginning of my career in 2014 until my most recent home game versus the Panthers. I will truly miss that.
“What transpires here, the relationships and friendships in the locker room, the brotherhood and friendships that we have here are definitely something I’m going to miss.”
