Siale Faeamani doesn't need much more motivation for this week's homecoming in New Zealand, but some impromptu words of wisdom from Josh Addo-Carr has given the Titans flyer even more confidence to club the team he was once part of.
The 21-year-old scored his first career double marking 'the Foxx' in Gold Coast's 52-10 overpowering of the Eels last Sunday, a matchup the rookie had to pinch himself to believe when in the thick of the action.
But making the encounter even more special was Addo-Carr's spontaneous praise for the six-game prospect post-match, filling Faeamani with even more belief as he prepares to head across the ditch to face the Warriors.
"Last week coming up against the Foxx, I've grown up watching him, so every time he got the ball, I'd be like... 'what the hell', he's just there in front of me," he said.
"He had a few words with me after the game saying I'm doing such a good job for the start of my career and to just keep going.
"It boosted my confidence more hearing from such a big name saying I'm doing well. It means a lot."
Go Media Stadium is a place the New Zealand-born winger knows all too well.
Growing up in Panmure, Faeamani's parents still call East Auckland home and he was previously part of the Warriors pathways system alongside wrecking ball Leka Halasima after a famous family member of his inspired the transition from rugby union.
"My older cousin Manu Ma'u used to play for the Parramatta Eels and had a big influence on why I wanted to make the switch over to league," he explained.
"I grew up playing union my whole life, came through the union pathways and then went to school and played First XV at St Peter's College.
"I then got my opportunity at the Warriors [through their pathways]. At the time, I did want to become a Warrior but things happened the way it did and I've ended up here.
"I'm loving it so far. The boys are making my time here really enjoyable and while the first game wasn't ideal, I've really grown my confidence and loving my footy now."
Match: Warriors v Titans
Round 7 -
home Team
Warriors
3rd Position
away Team
Titans
14th Position
Venue: Go Media Stadium, Auckland
Match broadcasters:
- WatchNRL
Whilst he may have to wait until after the game to enjoy one of his mother's special home-cooked meals, he is expecting 30+ family and friends to be part of the sold-out crowd at Mount Smart - especially for his proud parents who will be front and centre.
"I've had a lot of messages... hopefully I can get enough tickets for this weekend," Faeamani joked.
"It's going to be special going back home and playing my first NRL game there, especially in front of my family and my parents because they were unable to make it to my debut.
"It's a place my league journey started for me, so I can't wait."
