Widnes to wear Ottio tribute
Widnes Vikings will wear a tribute to Kato Ottio on their home and away shirts throughout the 2018 season.
The club was approached by senior team members, who wanted to show their respects for their late team-mate and in response, a special ‘Kato 18’ shirt transfer has been created, which will be worn at the heart of the player’s shirts.
With a stand-out yellow and red design, in honour of the traditional colour of the Papua New Guinea playing kit, the transfer is a fitting tribute to the fallen Kumuls star.
Vikings Members and supporters can add this design to any garment for just a suggested minimum donation of £5.
Every penny received will contribute towards the fundraising effort that has already raised over £15,000 to support Kato’s family back in Papua New Guinea. To purchase this transfer, just take your garments to the Vikings Superstore, at Tesco Extra, Widnes.
Supporters can also purchase the ‘Kato 18’ warm-up shirts, which were worn by the Vikings players and coaches in the build up to the recent friendly against Whitehaven.
Chris Houston, Widnes co-captain, said: “As a team, we wanted Kato to be remembered throughout the season. We were all excited to have him join our squad and we were confident that he would bring something very special to the team in 2018.
“His passing came as a huge shock to all of us and as a group we want to ensure that remains part of this team, even if it is only in spirit. I’m pleased that the Club has been able to support this by creating the special shirt transfer. Having seen the incredible response from Vikings supporters to this tragic passing, I am sure that many people will want join us in featuring it on their club shirts and clothing this season.
“We were all very proud to take to the field against Whitehaven wearing the special shirts that paid tribute to Kato. It will be fantastic to see our supporters in the stands wearing these. On behalf of the team, I’d like to thank everyone who backs these initiatives and has contributed in any way to our fundraising efforts. We can all feel very proud of what the Club and its supporters have achieved in supporting Kato’s loved ones.”
#RIPKato