TCLC students embrace Cowboys star Thomas Mikaele as new mentor

Giving 110 per cent, supporting teammates, and showing gratitude was some of the advice shared by the Townsville Community Learning Centre’s recently adopted Cowboy. See who stepped up.

Adopted Cowboys prop Thomas Mikaele with superfan Griffin Anderson at the Townsville Community Learning Centre. Picture: Supplied.

Despite cutting an imposing figure at 192cm tall and weighing 115kg, North Queensland Toyota Cowboys forward Thomas Mikaele still has a big challenge filling the giant shoes left by retiring Cowboys legend Jake Granville.

This year Granville passed the torch to Mikaele as the “adopted” Cowboy for the Townsville Community Learning Centre (TCLC), a school which caters for students with disabilities from prep through to year 12.

Mikaele won’t take his role in the Cowboys Adopt-a-School Program lightly.

“I really wanted to come to TCLC because I have a son who has level three autism so I feel like I can sort of relate to a lot of the parents of these children and just how the children interact with people,” Mikaele said.

“When the opportunity came up, I took it with both hands, and I wouldn’t say I’m doing as good a job as Jake did but I’m getting there.”

“(On my second) visit I spoke to the senior students about the Cowboys Way, which is giving 110 per cent, supporting your teammates and being grateful for what you have. They are bright kids, they take in all the information very well, and they know the Cowboys Way that’s for sure.”

Adopted Cowboys prop Thomas Mikaele meets student Griffin Anderson at the Townsville Community Learning Centre. Picture: Supplied.

A huge Cowboys fan and regular game attendee, senior student Griffin Anderson applauded Mikaele’s off-field performances.

“I was here when Jake was here so yes, he had very big shoes to fill but I think Tom has the energy and the potential to fill those shoes, he’s just a cool, relaxed, kind, loving Cowboy,” Griffin said.

“I’ve got a jersey on, and I go to every home game, and I really enjoy it with my dad, it’s a good atmosphere.”

Adopted Cowboys prop Thomas Mikaele addresses students at the Townsville Community Learning Centre. Picture: Supplied.

TCLC Deputy Principal Steve Leese said Mikaele’s request to be adopted by the school was huge for them, with students learning something from every visit.

Presented by Bravus Mining and Resources, the Cowboys’ Adopt-a-School program is into its 21st year.

For more information, visit www.cowboys.com.au.

Originally published as TCLC students embrace Cowboys star Thomas Mikaele as new mentor