Junior Vaivai: on representing USA, giving back and listening to The Rock

Vaivai nearly gave up on rugby league but his famous cousin intervened and now he is preparing for another World CupBy Gavin Willacy for No Helmets RequiredRugby league breaks new ground this weekend as the inaugural World Cup Nines takes place in Sydney. The tournament brings together 16 teams – 12 men’s sides and four women’s sides – and all 28 games will be broadcast live in the UK. NRL and Super League players such as Josh Addo-Carr, Daley Cherry-Evans, Sam Tomkins, George Williams and Shaun Johnson will be playing. And so will the much-travelled Taioalo “Junior” Vaivai.How excited are you to be playing for the USA on a such a big stage?“I’m just looking forward to playing against some of the best players in the world. Being in the same pool as Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea is going to be really tough. But it’s also good for the team. It gives us an idea of where we’re at with our game, individually and as a nation. I’m looking forward to seeing our athletic boys showcase their talent when there’s a lot of space.” Related: 'It’s been a right ride': Salford hold heads high after Grand Final defeat Was good to catch up and to spend some quality time with the cousin @therock it was very inspiring to hear some of his experiences. He's a great role model and is a very HUMBLE man #aiga #miami #verybigarms #veryhumbleman Related: 'I'm so obsessed': Adam Hills on fitting his TV career around rugby league Continue readingread full article

Source: TheGuardian

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