Coming through the Souths Juniors ranks, Siosifa Talakai wasn't influenced by NRL players when he was developing but moreso by NRL teams. While he admits he loved the Bulldogs growing up, Talakai is now happy to be 'South Sydney 'Til I Die'.
"It wasn't really players [I looked up to] it was more teams. I used to love the Bulldogs but I'm South Sydney 'Til I Die now," smiled Talakai.
A Mascot Jets product; Siosifa Talakai made his NRL debut last year at the age of 18, coming off the bench to score a try in our Round 13 clash with the Gold Coast Titans.
It was a solid debut for the talented centre and he looked good to cement a spot in Maguire's squad but a leg injury ruled him out of contention for the back end of the season.
Working hard over the pre-season, Talakai is fit and fighting to cement his spot in Maguire's squad. Adapting to the rigors of the NRL, the Souths Junior is enjoying the challenge and credits his teammates in creating a motivating atmosphere.
"It's tough, it's a tough gig but I love playing with these boys. We all have a great bond and it makes the game such fun," said
The Mascot Jets product admits to being a little starstruck when he started training with the Rabbitohs first grade squad, now four games into his NRL career he feels more confident in his abilities and position in Maguire's squad.
"At training I used to get lost for words to be given the opportunity to train with all these players - to be on the same paddock as Sam Burgess, Greg Inglis, John Sutton and Adam Reynolds - it's something you don't get to do everyday," said Talakai.
"I'm still a bit starstruck but I'm more confident now."
