Bush Beat: Daniel Abraham returns for Macquarie title defence, Willie Tonga calls time on career
WHEN Daniel Abraham won the Newcastle competition with the Macquarie Scorpions last season, he decided to hang up the boots. One pre-season session was all it took to twist his arm into running around again.
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WHEN Daniel Abraham won the Newcastle competition with the Macquarie Scorpions last season, he decided to hang up the boots.
The former Knights and Cowboys forward, who played alongside Andrew Johns and Johnathan Thurston, was ready to move into the next stage of his career.
But one pre-season session was all it took to twist Abraham’s arm about running around again in 2018.
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“I thought if I’m fit and strong enough to play at that level, then why not keep playing,” Abraham, now 37 said.
“I was doing my strength and conditioning course and I found it really enjoyable.
“That’s when I decided to do another pre-season. I thought if I can get through the pre-season, I should be able to play again.
“There is always going to be a risk of injury, but I enjoy being a part of the club and staying fit.
“I guess I’ll hang on for as long as I can, because you are a long time retired.”
Tonga’s next career chapter
Star Wests Newcastle recruit Willie Tonga has decided his ageing knees won’t last another season.
Tonga had agreed to play for the Rosellas this year, but in the end he couldn’t commit.
The former Test and Origin centre will now devote his time to youth work at Wadalba Secondary School.
Wests coach Matt Lantry would have loved Tonga’s experience, but he wishes him all the best for the future.
“Willie has found a job in an area that he enjoys and he can help young people from challenging backgrounds,” Lantry said.
“He has got a really good story to tell and I think he can have a real impact on those kids.
“It’s disappointing that he won’t play, but I still hold hope that we’ll see him around the club down the track as a trainer.
“If he needs footy in his life, we’ll be around to help him in that aspect.”