South Sydney Forward Keaon Koloamatangi Considers Future After Kangaroos Debut
South Sydney Rabbitohs forward Keaon Koloamatangi is evaluating his options following a breakout year capped by three Test appearances for Australia in teh Ashes series, with family considerations at the forefront of his decision-making process. The 26-year-old is scheduled to discuss his future with his manager this week, weighing potential opportunities against his responsibilities to his two children and fiancée.
Koloamatangi’s strong finish to the season, despite a challenging year for the Rabbitohs, saw him earn selection for the Australian squad and a captaincy nod for the Prime minister’s XIII. Now, as he returns to Sydney, the representative prop faces choices that could significantly impact both his career trajectory and his family’s well-being. His decision will be closely watched by South Sydney fans hoping he will embrace a leadership role at the club.
“I have to meet my manager on Tuesday and discuss a few things; it’s early days,” Koloamatangi said. “But I have two little ones and my fiancée to look after, I have to think about my family – they’re my No. 1 priority.”
The versatile forward experienced a positional shift this year under coach Wayne Bennett,moving from the back row to the middle,a change that proved pivotal to his success. He views the experience gained alongside elite players in the Australian setup as invaluable preparation for a leadership role back at the Bunnies.
“Hanging out with players at the top of their game, and seeing how professional they are, I can’t wait to go back as a leader to the Bunnies and hopefully chase that premiership,” he stated. “A lot of [younger] players might look up to me becuase I’ve played for Australia now. I have to step up, be that older player; my voice will be heard more.”
Koloamatangi was among a group of Kangaroos players – including Jacob Preston (Canterbury), Bradman Best (Newcastle), Ethan Strange (Canberra), and Tom dearden (North Queensland) – who opted to return to Australia promptly after the series, foregoing extended holidays in the UK. His return signals a commitment to preparing for the upcoming NRL season and a potential leadership position within the South Sydney club.
