We love the mighty Canberra Raiders
The Canberra Raiders have said their goodbyes to dynamic winger Semi Valemei.
The 24-year-old was re-signed in 2021 to remain in Canberra until the end of next season, but now the Fijian international is set to take up a new contract with the North Queensland Cowboys in his quest to play more NRL games.
"It was a really tough moment [Thursday] morning, when Semi, a very quiet guy, spoke to the group," Raiders coach Ricky Stuart confirmed.
Josh Hodgson will hope a trip to his former home of Canberra can inspire his best form as he continues to adapt to life at Parramatta.
The 138-game former Raiders captain will head to GIO Stadium for the first time as an opposition player, having struggled early in his tenure at the Eels.
Hogdson isn't just finding his feet at a new club but also getting match fitness after an ACL tear saw him sit out his final season in the capital.
Returning Raider Albert Hopoate only has to look to his opposite wing to discover the blueprint for a long and successful NRL career.
Coming off a double last week, veteran winger Jordan Rapana will be eyeing his 100th career try against Parramatta this weekend, and his apprentice Hopoate will be cheering him on.
"Rapa's a big mentor for me," Hopoate said on the Raiders' Behind the Limelight podcast. "I sit next to him in meetings. I can ask him questions and pick his brain.