Hero inspired Sonny Bill to be role model

SONNY BILLWILLIAMS has revealed why he will never turn away a child who wants his time.

The dual-code superstar is in huge demand wherever he goes with Super League newcomers Toronto Wolfpack.

His determination to satisfy fans’ selfie requests can take up to 30 minutes after games – to the surprise of some team-mates.

ButWilliams said it was his childhood experience that made him keen to be a role model.

He said: “I remember Eroni Clarke, an All Black, coming to our school when I was eight.

“He was an awesome, energetic, loving guy and if I can affect kids in that way then so be it.

“We have to understand that we are more than rugby players or people kids look up to.There is a responsibility on us to captivate those kids and see how they can aspire to be rugby players and good people.”

Team-mate JonWilkin admits that having arguably the world’s biggest rugby star in their team is rubbing off on everyone.

Wilkin, above, said: “Everyone wants a piece of him.

“His experience is so different to ours. But he has taught the guys a lot about how to behave when people want your time.”

Williams, whose fourth child was born this month, is slowly finding his feet back in League after five years playing Union.

He is believed to be earning £5million for his two years with Toronto, who have lost all four games in Super League.

FIFTH-ROUND DRAW Leaders Huddersfield have drawn Toronto as four Super League sides come into the Challenge Cup for the fifth round. The remaining top-flight sides join in round six.

Wakefield Bradford, Widnes Swinton, Sheffield Workington, Newcastle Whitehaven/ Dewsbury, Featherstone Hunslet, Toronto Huddersfield, Hull KR Leigh, York Rochdale

vvvvvvvvThe ties will be played over the weekend of March 14-15.