We take a look at one of the Rabbitohs’ young guns that has made his way up to the first grade squad through the NYC squad, utility forward Lucky Kenneth Ta’avale.
Background
Big Lucky Ta’avale grew up in Logan, just south of Brisbane, where he played for his junior Club, the Browns Plain Bears. He is of Samoan descent.
Career
An unlucky break in his hand saw Ta’avale miss a chunk of the 2017 NYC season, however that didn’t stop the powerhouse forward from making a late season comeback.
There’s no coincidence that his return coincided with his side’s return to form, where he cemented a backrow spot and formed a formidable combination alongside Siosifa Talakai.
Lucky Ta’avale“It’s a dream come true being in the same locker room as [the first graders], training with them and learning off them. I’m just grateful to be here.”
Style
As a forward who can play multiple positions, Ta’avale has many dynamics to his game. On the edge he has the ability to run through holes and hit lines.
As a middle forward, especially with such a big frame at 192cm and 105kg, he is able to bulldoze over opponents, and also has a high work rate, which means plenty of post contact metres from the big bopper.
How He Fits Into The Squad
What Lucky does have on his side is versatility. While he does primarily play as an edge-back rower, the big unit is also capable of playing lock and in the front row, so his flexibility is an advantage he has over some of his teammates.
Although he is one of the younger forwards in the squad, his impressive training ethic is just one example of his desire to earn a first grade debut in 2018.
General Manager of Football Shane Richardson“Lucky Ta’avale is a great young player we’ve brought through from the under 20s. He’s an edge-backrower who has been outstanding in the pre-season training and will do his apprenticeship at North Sydney next year, but we have high hopes for him in the future.”
