Brothers gear up for potential final season together

A mere mention of the ‘R’ word from 32-year-old Grant Rovelli to brother Josh and plans were in place to play at least one final season together.

Josh and Grant Rovelli last played together for the Mackay Cutters in 2009. They’ll play for the Souths Sharks this year in the Auscoal Super Cup. Their father Troy is football manager at Souths. Picture: Peter Holt

RUGBY LEAGUE: "I said to Josh that this year might be my last go around and I wouldn't mind playing it together."

A mere mention of the 'R' word from 32-year-old Grant Rovelli to brother Josh and plans were in place for the brothers to play at least one final season together.

The fact was that both had retirement on their mind.

The name Rovelli is synonymous with Mackay rugby league and this year the Walkerston-raised brothers will line up side by side at Souths Sharks after years playing against each other, around the country and, in Grant's case, around the world.

COMPETITION veteran reflects on rugby league career

Josh, 30, played with Mackay Brothers last year, while Grant has marshalled a successful Souths side since returning to bush footy.

They last played together in 2009 with the Mackay Cutters but it hasn't always been rosy - especially with their older cousins in the Walkerston backyard.

"There were plenty of fisticuffs over the years," Grant said.

"Fights were the worst because Josh would get you and then mum and dad would get us in even more trouble."

"Grant was always quicker than me," Josh said. "If I caught him I'd always try to do some damage."

He recalled the day Grant's speed caused him to clean up his teammate cousin, resulting in a broken nose.

"My uncle absolutely cracked it," Josh laughed.

Years after the backyard battles Grant and Josh would reunite at the Sydney Roosters, where on 2004 NRL Grand Final day they both tasted success. Grant won the premiership with the Roosters' reserve grade team and Josh was part of an undefeated Jersey Flegg side.

"Looking back on it you think that was a pretty special day," Grant said.

They wouldn't play together again until 2009, when Grant returned to Mackay after 94 NRL games with New Zealand and North Queensland.

They may be battle weary veterans but if they are playing together come September, they'll be tough to stop.

Originally published as Brothers gear up for potential final season together