Former Hunter passes away

By PARKER TAMBUA
NEW East New Britain Governor and former SP Hunters coach Michael Marum passed his condolences to the family of his former player, Tiger Emere, who passed away in Goroka last Thursday.
The reigning Digicel Cup prop of the year and two-time Lae Tigers premiership winner was part of the Hunters’ inaugural squad in their 2014 debut season in Queensland’s then Intrust Super Cup (now Hostplus Cup).
It is understood that Emere died at the Goroka General Hospital after a long battle with illness.
Marum was the foundation coach of the South Pacific Brewery-sponsored side.
Emere was selected from Enga Mioks in the 2013 Digicel Cup season. He played a few games with the Hunters before joining the Lae Biscuit Company-backed Tigers in the following season.
Marum told The National yesterday that Emere was a tough competitor.
“Tiger Emere was a great kid when he joined the Hunters during our pre-season camp,” he said.
“He always had a smile.
“He was a tough competitor who could play multiple positions like centre, second row, prop and lock.
“He will be sadly missed by the rugby league family, including fans.
“Condolences to his immediate family.”
Emere’s former teammates also took to social media to express their sadness.
SP Hunters legend and former teammate Timothy Lomai said Emere was a quality player.
“He was one of the best we had,” he said.
“He was a man with few words and a huge smile.
“I had some great years playing alongside him.
“We are all devastated to hear about his passing.
“Condolences to his family and may he rest in peace,” Lomai said.
Emere’s teammates and former clubs joined in sending their condolences online following his passing last week.
Emere moved to Waghi Tumbe at the start of 2021 season and was part of the side till his passing.
The front-rower was inspirational in leading Tumbe to their maiden Digicel Cup grand final appearance last year where they lost to his former team, the Tigers. Emere was named as the Digicel Cup prop of the year.