Former NRL star Talatau Junior Amone makes return to footy field in new code on NSW’s south coast

A former NRL star and international representative is forging his path back to the top level after being banned from the game in 2023. See the pictures and hear from his new club.

Talatau Junior Amone made his return to footy with Kiama in the Illawarra Rugby Union competition. Picture: Paul Davidson Photography

Talatau Junior Amone made his return to the footy field over the weekend, far away from the glitz and glamour of the NRL.

The controversial 23-year-old featured for Kiama in a local Illawarra District Rugby Union fixture against Shoalhaven in front of the local home faithful on NSW’s south coast.

The humble local footy ground was a far cry from the bright lights of first grade, but marks the first step on his road to redemption.

Talatau Junior Amone helped Kiama end Shoalhaven’s 1000+ day winning streak. Picture: Paul Davidson Photography

Incredibly, Amone’s addition helped Kiama end one of the competition’s longest ever winning runs, with Shoalhaven tasting defeat for the first time in over 1000 days.

Kiama Rugby Club president Mark Redding commended his attitude since joining the club.

“He did play on the weekend and lifted the boys, helping us to get an upset over Shoalhaven. It’s the first time they’ve been beaten in a couple of years,” he said.

“He’s been good while he’s been with us. We’ve had no issues. He’s turned up to training and is doing everything he can (to help the team).

“Junior knows a couple of the fellas in the team and wanted to have a run. He’s certainly adapted well (to union).

“He’s contributing and helping us out at the club really well.”

Talatau Junior Amone hasn’t played in the NRL since 2023. Photo: Mark Metcalfe/Getty Images

Amone last played in the NRL in 2023 where he was given a breach notice for his role in a hammer attack in Warrawong the year prior.

He escaped a prison sentence, instead being given a community corrections order. The NRL stood him down for 12 months as a result.

It came as a cruel blow for his blossoming first grade career, having represented the Dragons 54 times since his debut in 2021, as well as representing Tonga in the 2022 World Cup.

Originally published as Former NRL star Talatau Junior Amone makes return to footy field in new code on NSW’s south coast