In a heartfelt commitment to the Penrith Panthers, prop Moses Leota has vowed to uphold the legacy of his close friend and fellow forward, James Fisher-Harris, following Fisher-Harris’s departure to the New Zealand Warriors. This significant transition has left an indelible mark on both the team and Leota personally.
Fisher-Harris’s decision to leave the Panthers was driven by personal reasons, including the passing of his grandfather and a desire to reconnect with his Māori heritage in New Zealand. This move, announced in May 2024, sent shockwaves through the NRL community and deeply affected those within the Panthers organization. Leota, who shared a formidable partnership with Fisher-Harris on the field, was among the first to learn of his friend’s intentions. Reflecting on the moment, Leota shared, “He told me the night before he told the rest of the boys… I was pretty distraught.” citeturn0search2
Despite the emotional impact, Leota expressed understanding and support for Fisher-Harris’s choice, acknowledging the importance of family and cultural roots. He noted, “I’m happy for him but I’m going to really miss the bro. The heart wants what the heart wants.” citeturn0search2
As the Panthers prepared for the 2024 NRL Grand Final, Leota emphasized his determination to honor Fisher-Harris’s legacy by maintaining the high standards and leadership they established together. He stated, “It’s going to be tough to say goodbye… Playing one more grand final together is really special and it’s something we’ll look back on when we retire. It’ll be good to finish on a high.” citeturn0search5
The departure of Fisher-Harris, coupled with other key players like Jarome Luai, has presented challenges for the Panthers. However, Leota remains optimistic about the team’s future, expressing confidence in the emerging talent within the squad. He highlighted players such as Lindsay Smith and Liam Henry, stating, “I believe we’ve got the players already, but whatever the club wants to do is up to them. I’ve got faith in the boys here to get the job done.” citeturn0search2
Leota’s commitment to the Panthers extends beyond his on-field performance. He has taken on a mentorship role, guiding younger players and fostering a culture of resilience and dedication. This leadership is crucial as the team navigates the transitions and aims to sustain their competitive edge in the league.
In summary, Moses Leota’s promise to uphold the legacy of James Fisher-Harris reflects his deep loyalty to both his friend and the Penrith Panthers. His leadership and unwavering commitment are poised to inspire the team as they embark on a new chapter, striving for continued success in the NRL.
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