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External study suits Brumbies recruit

January 06, 2006

Fainifo.thumb.jpgFrancis Fainifo, a 2006 recruit to the ACT Brumbies, played his first game of Rugby Union as a student at The University of New England (UNE), Armidale. The 190cm, 101kg convert from Rugby League played four seasons with UNE’s Robb College while studying for a Bachelor of Commerce degree.

Four years later, aged 22, he lives in Canberra while completing his degree by distance education, balancing study with social life and demanding training sessions. “I really enjoy the flexibility external study provides, and can still enjoy a brilliant lifestyle”, Francis said.

Francis Fainifo (pictured here) is contracted to the Brumbies for an initial 12 months and trains full-time. He is in the Brumbies’ A team, playing either wing or full-back, where his side-stepping, acceleration and speed are an asset. He looks forward to his first trial match against the NSW Waratahs on 21 January at Wollongong’s WIN Stadium.

Francis completed secondary school at Eaglevale High, Campbelltown, and came to UNE for independence and new experiences away from home and city life. “I liked living at Robb College, as it has a great family atmosphere and we stuck together,” he said. “There was always assistance in exam preparation and with assignments, and they encourage leadership.”

Francis thought one of the best features of UNE was its sports centre with the top-class gym he used four or five times a week. He felt campus social life was “fantastic”. “Although I’m a non-drinker, I’m ‘high into life’ and don’t need much motivation to enjoy myself,” he said.

When asked about his career prospects Francis said he hoped to work for one of the Super 14’s Franchise teams to pursue his love of Rugby from a business perspective. He thought his commerce degree would be very useful. “I majored in Human Resource Management and Marketing while studying finance, accounting, marketing and management, and feel the Bachelor of Commerce degree program is really well balanced,” he said. “If I am injured I will have a top degree to back me up,” he added.

Posted by Jim Scanlan at January 6, 2006 11:12 AM