Willie Tonga, a prominent centre in the NRL during the 21st century, has shared insights into his career, including his favorite teammates and the reasons behind his move to the North Queensland Cowboys. In a recent interview, Tonga named two standout players he enjoyed playing alongside: Sonny Bill Williams and Johnathan Thurston.
Tonga praised Sonny Bill Williams for his exceptional athleticism and relentless work ethic. He noted that Williams’ dedication in training and his drive to excel were remarkable, which contributed significantly to his success in the game. Williams, known for his physical prowess and skills, left a lasting impression on Tonga during their time together at the Canterbury Bulldogs.
Additionally, Tonga spoke highly of Johnathan Thurston, describing him as a key factor in his decision to join the Cowboys. Tonga acknowledged that despite critics doubting Thurston’s abilities due to his size, he believed Thurston would become one of the greatest halfbacks in history. Tonga’s admiration for Thurston was a major influence on his career move from the Bulldogs to the Cowboys.
Tonga explained that after dealing with a series of injuries during his five seasons with the Bulldogs, he felt it was time for a change. Moving to North Queensland was a strategic decision aimed at rejuvenating his career. He believed that playing alongside Thurston at the Cowboys would help him return to his peak performance level and fulfill his potential in both Queensland and Australian rugby league.
Throughout his career, Tonga played for several teams including the Parramatta Eels, Canterbury Bulldogs, and North Queensland Cowboys, before retiring in 2014. He also had stints in the Super League with the Catalan Dragons, Leigh Leopards, and Bradford Bulls. His experiences across these teams and leagues shaped his views on his favorite teammates and career decisions.
