NOT JUST A JERSEY
SATURDAY’S clash at Suncorp Stadium has a special meaning for rivals Ash Taylor and Josh Addo-Carr.
While they will both be fighting for a win for their respective teams, they know they will also be setting an example for the next generation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players.
The NRL will celebrate their annual Indigenous Round this weekend in what is also the Suncorp Stadium double header, with the Storm to host the Titans.
For Gold Coast playmaker Taylor, it’s not only an honour for the governing body to acknowledge his heritage, but it’s also a chance to show young indigenous children what they can achieve. “The Aboriginal kids tend to take inspiration from other Aboriginals doing well in sport,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter what sport you’re doing. It’s very important for us to make sure we’re doing the right thing to make them set some goals like we did as kids.
“We just want to spread the word that there is life out there. You just have to chase your dreams.”
Melbourne speedster Addo-Carr has also seen firsthand what an impact him, Taylor and other indigenous players can make.
The winger is studying youth work and to be a teacher’s aide and said even in an AFL state like Victoria he can provide inspiration to young kids.
“I do a lot with indigenous
kids and it’s something I’m pretty passionate about,” he said.
While they may share pride in their culture, Taylor and Addo-Carr will be rivals on Saturday, as both players look to put recent losses behind them. Taylor in particular has a lot to play for, given the Titans’ slide down the ladder after four consecutive losses.
The young halfback is still adapting to his new playmaking combination with Bryce Cartwright but said the onus falls on him to help out the former Panther more.
“It’s a bit challenging,” Taylor said of the changing halves combinations.
“It’s throwing Bryce a bit in the deep end as well. He’s not a natural five-eighth but in saying that he can do the role well.”