Cowboys v Sharks: young gun John Asiata hoping to make big impact both on and off the field

AS the Cowboys flew home from the World Club Challenge victory in the UK two weeks ago, some players slept, some watched movies — but not John Asiata.

AS the Cowboys flew home from the World Club Challenge victory in the UK two weeks ago, some players slept, some watched movies — but not John Asiata.

The 22-year-old forward could instead be seen hitting the books, studying under the dim aeroplane lights for his Diploma of Community Services.

It is one of the ways he stays grounded.

After last year playing 25 games for the Cowboys and winning a premiership ring in his second year of first grade, it would be easy for his ego to grow.

But even as he works towards breaking into the starting side, Asiata says he uses his goals outside of football to remind him the best is actually yet to come.

He says to stay grounded he focuses on helping others, doing things such as the World’s Greatest Shave and working towards an eventual career as a youth worker.

“It’s something I can do to give back to the community,” he told News Corp Australia.

“A lot of people come out here to support us so the one thing we can do as football players is help out those that are in need.

“Working in community service and doing youth work is one of my big passions.

John Asiata says he’s got a lot to prove for the Cowboys this season.

“There’s a lot of kids out there that could be something like an NRL star or a doctor. It’s just a matter of decision-making and choices that keeps them from doing that.

“Being able to help them and make sure they make the right decisions, it makes me happy to see I can make an impact in someone’s life. For me to do that, it brings joy to my heart.”

And it is this attitude that is also helping Asiata along in his career.

He said as well as making an impact away from the game, he knows he can set an example on the field.

It’s something he hopes to do from Saturday, when North Queensland being their premiership defence against Cronulla.

“I’ve got a lot more to prove ... It would be awesome to be able to start,” he said.

“I believe that I was blessed last year.

“But I know that there’s more to come this year and the years to come. There’s a lot better things that are going to happen and I cant wait to see what it is.”

Originally published as Cowboys v Sharks: young gun John Asiata hoping to make big impact both on and off the field