Ash Taylor, Josh Addo-Carr set example ahead of NRL’s Indigenous Round

SATURDAY’S clash at Suncorp Stadium has a special meaning for rivals Ash Taylor and Josh Addo-Carr.

Storm’s Josh Addo-Carr and Titans’ Ash Taylor.

SATURDAY’S clash at Suncorp Stadium has a special meaning for rivals Ash Taylor and Josh Addo-Carr.

While they will be fighting for a win for their respective teams, they know they will be setting an example for the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players.

The NRL will celebrate their annual Indigenous Round this weekend in what is also the Suncorp Stadium double header, with the Storm to host the Titans.

For Gold Coast playmaker Taylor, it’s not only an honour for the NRL to acknowledge his heritage but also a chance to show indigenous children what they can achieve.

“The Aboriginal kids tend to take inspiration from other Aboriginals doing well in sport,” he said.

Storm’s Josh Addo-Carr and Titans’ Ash Taylor.

“It doesn’t matter what sport you’re doing. It’s very important for us to make sure we’re doing the right thing to make them set some goals like we did as kids.

“We just want to spread the word that there is life out there.

“You just have to chase your dreams.”

Melbourne speedster Addo-Carr has seen first-hand what an impact he, Taylor and other indigenous players can make.

The winger is studying youth work and to be a teacher’s aide, and said even in an AFL state such as Victoria he could provide inspiration to young kids.

“I do a lot with indigenous kids and it’s something I’m pretty passionate about,” he said.

“It’s an AFL city but telling my story to the kids, they’re very proud to hear what I’ve gone through and I suppose it gives them belief.”