Michael Coates, the father of two rising rugby league stars in Xavier and Philip, was very emotional and happy to see his sons represent PNG and Australia respectively in the 2024 Prime Minister’s XIII match and the upcoming Pacific Championships.
Young Philip made his debut for the Junior Kumuls and had a strong game on Sunday, October 13th, while bigger brother Xavier will make his debut for the Kangaroos in the Pacific Championships this Friday, October 18th, at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane.
Mr. Coates couldn’t hold back his tears of joy when asked how he felt about his two sons representing PNG and Australia. He and his daughter were in the stands at the Santos National Football Stadium on Sunday, rooting for Philip. His wife unfortunately couldn’t make it due to passport issues.
“Words are hard to explain how proud I am. I’m very proud of both of them. The whole family is indeed very proud of Philip and Xavier,” Mr. Coates expressed his excitement for his sons.
“Philip wanted to play for the Kumuls ever since Xavier had his opportunity, and now it’s a dream come true for him (Philip). I’m sure he is not going to let it go very quickly.
“Unfortunately, Philip’s mother had a problem with her passport, so she couldn’t be here. But, she’s probably the loudest supporter than anybody.”
The Coates’ brothers hail from a mixed parentage of Australia and PNG, so they are eligible to play for the two countries. Xavier had the chance to play for PNG (mother’s side) in 2019, and now he chose to play for Australia (father’s side).
On the contrary, Philip had the opportunity to play for the Junior Kumuls in the Prime Minister’s XIII match, and he too might follow in the footsteps of his elder brother (Xavier) in the future, aspiring to represent both his mother’s and father’s heritage.
Michael Coates said he was very stoked to see his two sons given the opportunity to represent both PNG and Australia in the 2024 international rugby league matches.
PC: Michael Coates fb
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