After a hard week of training, most players will enjoy a much-deserved weekend off before returning to training on Monday morning — but not Wests Tigers recruit Tom Amone.
While most players are sipping on lattes at the local café, enjoying the sun at the beach or just relaxing at home, Amone is getting his hands dirty as a concreter.
When not on the training paddock or playing footy, Amone helps out his family members on the worksite.
“Footy is my main focus, but I also work as a concreter in my spare time,” the recruit said
“It’s hard work but I enjoy it because it gets me away from footy and it’s a good way to clear my head.
“I help out as much as I can. Training and playing football comes first but I try to get on the tools a bit.”
It’s not just as a concreter that Amone doesn’t mind getting his hands dirty, he’s prepared to roll down his sleeves when he takes to the footy field.
An Australian Schoolboy and Junior Kiwis representative player, who has already proven himself at the NRL level, the 24-year-old will add further talent and depth to the Wests Tigers engine room following his immediate arrival to the club.
“I guess I don’t mind doing the hard work on the field too,” he laughed.
“I’m here to do the tough stuff — run straight and carry the ball hard to get the boys on the front foot.”
The former South Sydney player was added to the Wests Tigers top squad during the week.
“When the opportunity came to move here, it was a bit daunting but I’m ready for challenge … it’s been good so far and I can’t wait to play with the boys,” he said.
“It’s a bit different joining this late in pre-season and so close to Round 1 but I’m enjoying the change.
“I’m really excited to join the boys and they’re all making me feel very welcome.”
Wests Tigers Coach Michael Maguire welcomed Amone’s arrival to the club.
“Tom has shown he has what it takes to make it at the NRL level so we’re very pleased to have secured his services for the season ahead,” Maguire said.
“Having overcome some adversity, Tom has worked hard to be ready for the season ahead and I’m looking forward to him adding further to our forward pack this year.”
