Keehan Diamond : « we played the entire 80 minutes as a team »
Few days after the victory of his team in Elite 1, we have met Keehan Diamond, australian half of SO Avignon.
Keehan, can you quickly present yourself ?
My name is Keehan Diamond, I’m 25 and I am the fullback for Sporting Olympique Avignon.
Champions of Elite 1, what is your first reaction ?
Unbelievable. Each team has the same goal in mind at the beginning of the season to win the championship, but to actually accomplish is amazing. It’s even more special being the first ever Elite 1 championship for SOA and to be a part of history for the club is an awesome feeling.
What do you think about the performance of the team in this final ?
The team definitely stepped up for the match against Limoux. We were building towards the end of the season and into the finals. Limoux are a big side and we knew we had to match them physically. The passion and heart of our boys really showed on Sunday, and we never gave up. We played the entire 80 minutes as a team and I couldn’t be more proud of them.
What do you think about the level of Elite 1 ?
Skilful. The competition is full of a lot of talent and skill across all 10 teams. Even in the junior U/20’s competition there is some great talent coming through, which is awesome for French rugby league.
You join Avignon as a player but you also work for Eels, can you explain this ?
Yes I worked with the NRL and the Parramatta Eels as a Development Officer. My role with the club was to promote rugby league and the Parramatta Eels in the community through a variety of school programs and initiatives that aim to grow the game rugby league.
Are you going to continue with Avignon next year ?
Avignon is an awesome club. The people in and around the club have been great and the players have been nothing but welcoming. For the moment I’m just enjoying the win with the team, and will know within the next few weeks.