After enduring three consecutive seasons at the bottom of the NRL ladder, Wests Tigers are placing their hopes on new leadership to forge a path to success. Over the past few years, the club has suffered defeats in various ways, from narrow losses to significant blowouts, with two instances of conceding 70 points in a match—a rarity in the league’s history. Since 2022, the Tigers have lost a staggering 58 games, almost double the losses new recruit Jarome Luai has experienced in his entire career.
As the club looks to turn a page, there’s a resurgence of optimism, albeit with a history of false dawns marked by missteps in strategy and recruitment. Despite finishing last once again in 2024, there were glimpses of hope: more victories than previous spoon seasons and the emergence of promising young talent. The Tigers also made significant roster changes, cutting ties with underperforming players.
Luai, an accomplished player known for his leadership on and off the field, is seen as a cornerstone for rebuilding. His proficiency at halfback in 2024 demonstrated his ability to control games and create opportunities, which is expected to uplift teammates like Samuela Fainu, the club’s reigning player of the year.
The impact Luai can have extends beyond match days. Seen as a spiritual leader, he embodies confidence and pride, drawing comparisons to James Fisher-Harris of Penrith, renowned for instilling relentless intensity during his team’s championship reigns. Luai’s influence is palpable and inspiring for younger players like Luke Laulilii, who acknowledges the transformative impact of having a player of Luai’s caliber.
Teammate Api Koroisau vouches for Luai’s multifaceted leadership. Known for combining charm with an unyielding competitive edge, Luai has shown growth from a spirited young player into a seasoned leader capable of steering the group with both humor and resolve.
The Tigers are not solely relying on Luai for a turnaround. The club’s recruitment drive brings in talent across the board, including promising additions like Sunia Turuva and Jeral Skelton in the backline and Terrell May in the forward pack. The current squad is hailed as the most balanced and thrilling Wests Tigers lineup in years.
With a renewed sense of expectation, the team is determined to break free from its recent past. The focus, according to Koroisau, is on daily progress and maintaining high standards, an emphasis instilled by the coaching staff from day one. This commitment to improvement is gaining momentum within the club, fostering belief that better days are on the horizon.