He’s the quiet, humble, respectful prop with the big smile who just goes about his business with minimal fuss.
It’s why Fonua Pole prefers to view his 100th NRL game this Saturday night as ‘just another game’, rather than being the one in the spotlight ahead of the Wests Tigers clash with the Nth Qld Cowboys in Townsville.
At just 24, Pole is in his fifth season in the NRL after making his debut for Wests Tigers at lock against the Warriors in July, 2022.
The New Zealand-born Tongan came through the Wests Tigers Pathways.
“I kind of don’t know how to feel right now. I keep trying to play it off, but I think it means more to my family’,’’ Pole said when asked about the milestone.
“They keep reminding me about how special it is. Just thinking back over the season and thinking about getting that debut, it was a special moment for me.
“Hundred games is crazy, especially how fast it went as well. I’m just grateful. I will treat it just like any other game.”
The match against the Cowboys also sees Pole reach 23 games in a season for the third time in five years which is testament to his hard work, preparation, durability, toughness, and commitment to succeed.
Those qualities are just many that team-mates like hooker and captain Api Korisau, and full-back Jahream Bula, admire about Pole.
“Fonua is one of the most impressive guys I've seen him and one of the most professional and humble young men that I've met,’’ Koroisau said.
“Just watching the way he goes about his work, he is in here every day doing recovery and developing his craft.
“I think the way he's played this year has really shown that as well. He's been one of our better players.
“Every week he turns up with the right attitude and really has a crack.
“You can work really hard off the field but for him to actually execute and play so well week in, week out and be one of our best players, is quite impressive."
Bula said he has developed a close friendship with Pole, with the pair sharing similar values.
“The way he carries himself off the field is one of the most impressive things for me,’’ Bula said.
“I think the way he is off the field translates onto the field as well.
“Fonua is very professional. He is always in doing recovery and extras, and it shows on the field.
“He's a great player. He has been one of our better players this year. He has been killing it for us lately.”
