Canberra helped Junior to mature

HE’S resurrected his career and developed into one of the most feared front-rowers in the world, but Junior Paulo says he never would have become that player had it not been for a short but timely stint in the nation’s capital.

Paulo made his NRL debut at the Eels in 2013, which was also the only year Ricky Stuart coached Parramatta before the Canberra legend decided to move back home.

The hulking prop played another two seasons in Sydney’s west but midway through 2016 he became a Raider.

His stint in Canberra didn’t last long and he was back in Parramatta for the start of the 2019 season, but this time he was a changed man.

“I’m certainly a lot more mature,” Paulo (pictured) said.

“Part of that road trip down the highway down to Canberra was part of helping me grow up away from the footy field.

“If I didn’t make that move, I’m probably not here.”

Paulo and the Eels will face Canberra on Friday night in an elimination final that Parramatta must win after years of failing to progress past the second week of the post-season.

It’s fitting that Paulo and Stuart will again cross paths, given they both benefited from being in Canberra.

“It’s probably stressful when you’re away from family, and I was kind of in a similar situation when I had to move down there,” said Paulo, who noticed how calm Stuart is compared to his time at Parramatta.

“Ricky had to move back to Canberra where he was able to set up with his family all down there. It definitely makes it a lot easier. I’m sure Ricky will be looking forward to the battle knowing it’s Parramatta.”