Super League Clubs

Every team in rugby league in England has their own Aussie; it’s almost like a special card they use in a game. Aussies are usually giants that almost seem like the world’s strongest man, they get hyped up and usually they live up to it, nothing can stand in their way, they’re a hurricane and they will cause destruction on the field in most cases. However, our English boys will not pass the chance of being able to go down under. Maybe to make an impact on the NRL or maybe for the money side of it given that the salary cap is increasing, some players even believed to be on one million dollar contracts or maybe both factors fall into it, who knows. 

For example, James Graham, I’m sure the name rings a bell. Graham made a name for himself when named Saints young player of the year in 2007, he also starred in both the 2008 and 2009 dream teams as well as achieving the Man of Steel award in 2008 so in terms of achievements’ he’s done tremendously well and it gets better. Graham joined the Bulldogs side in 2012, and took a huge profile with him. After watching the NRL Grand Final it’s clear to see that James like to get stuck in; the first hit saw him fracture Sam Burgess’ cheekbone and then later on in the game David Tyrrell was floored after being involved in a head clash with the co-captain… Maybe you should lay off the head clashes, Graham. 

Now, I’m sure we've all heard of the iconic Burgess Brothers, right? The 4 lads from Dewsbury that have not only stamped their name into the soil of rugby league over here in England but also on the turf in Australia. They proved just how talented they are by playing in the NRL Grand Final that happened on the Sunday just gone which went on to see the South Sydney Rabbitohs crowned as the 2014 Premiers. 

All four brothers’ play for South Sydney Rabbitohs, well, they did until the end of this season where Sam Burgess leaves for the other code to join Bath. Whether its Toms tackling style by just flopping like a bear on top or George with his determination which brings out outstanding tries or Sam with his power to be able to break tackles or completely smash a player over, every Burgess boy has a talent. However, you cannot forget Luke Burgess, the brother who seems to be in the shadows of the younger trio of Burgess Boys however Luke can still pack big hits and can power through. 

The four brothers have shown that with determination and fight inside of them they can work up a storm. Each of them have made a name for not only themselves but all together by being the first set of four siblings to play for an Australian side in the same game for more than a century, this is cancelling out the fact that they've come from England making it an even bigger achievement as the Australian rugby is a very hard sport to get into, never mind making it big over there.

Sam; this man has had a huge impact on my life, especially when it comes to motivation. (Before you jump to conclusions Sam is not in fact my favorite of the Burgess Boys… It’s Tom) Ever since I watched Sam's documentary it showed me how true and humble he is. He used rugby league as a way of taking his mind off of things, especially when his Dad became sick. He was strong enough to cope with it as well as picking the rest of his family up, something no one can really do. It showed me that no matter how big a problem may seem you will conquer it by having faith. He's taught and shown me true passion takes you a long way. He has fight inside of him and he showed it in the NRL Grand Final by carrying on even though he fractured his cheekbone in the first tackle. I have been in awe with just how good this man truly is; once he has the adrenaline rush nothing will stop him from reaching the try line. He can push off 4 or 5 men as if it was nothing, the sheer determination throughout the whole time he’s on the pitch is unbelievable, and I cannot sing my praises about him enough. Just because he is now going to the other code does not mean I will look up to him any less, he will always be one of my idols. Good luck, Sam.

Now, don’t get too sad about Sam leaving, I’m sure he will return back to rugby league, they always do. Also, George, Tom and Luke have confirmed that they will not be leaving rugby league for the other side which means the Burgess legacy can carry on, just with one less brother. I cannot wait to see what they can deliver over the coming seasons, especially with the twins being named in the England squad, which is a no brainer. From the sounds of it next season will make a huge impact in the sporting world and I cannot wait to be a part of it.