KING OF CAS: WE MUST GIVE FANS THRILLS

JESSE SENE-LEFAO wants Castleford to hit the jackpot as Super League’s entertainers in a boost to their hard-hit fans. Supporters everywhere are suffering financially as a result of coronavirus and Tigers forward Sene-Lefao says that pain must not be underestimated.

The father of four (left) spent his early career working by day, followed by training and then heading out for eight-hour shifts as a bouncer, to make ends meet.

It’s an experience the former Samoa international says makes him appreciate fans’ sacrifices.

He said: “That £20 to watch us play can be a lot to some and I know there are people out there who don’t earn top-dollar.

“So it’s only goodwill to try to give back. Rugby league is a breath of fresh air around this community and during tough times gives people a purpose.”

Sene-Lefao, 30, has become a huge favourite at Castleford since arriving in 2017, the year he helped his new side reach the Grand Final.

His work in the community has earned him the nickname ‘King of Cas’ from team-mates, and Sene-Lefao says it’s important to put smiles on faces.

He said: “I had my eldest child just after I turned 19, and my missus was 18, so I had responsibilities from the get-go.

“I had a day job and training in the afternoon and worked nights in security. As a dad it showed me the first step of responsibility.

“Once I made my debut I could have given up security but chose to work straight after games. It kept me humble and focused.”

Sene-Lefao spent lockdown home-schooling his kids as well as promoting positivity and mindfulness on social media.

And he’s excited at training restarting, with the season resuming next Sunday. He told Tigers’ ROAR magazine: “My aim is to come back like I’ve never missed a beat.”