Thrilling Kirwan Bear in leap to big time with Wests Tigers
FROM the footy fields of Bowen to the bright lights of the NRL, this schoolboys rugby league sensation is making huge strides in his fledging footy career.
Kirwan State High School student and Townsville Blackhawks flyer Dudley Dotoi has signed with NRL outfit the Wests Tigers on a two-yeardeal and will begin pre-season training with the Sydney-based club in November.
Already making a name for himself in footy circles thanks to his speed, ability and dynamite fend, Dotoi is eager to follow in the footsteps of other Kirwan High alumni who have taken the NRL by storm in recent times, such as Hamiso TabuaiFidow, Jason Taumalolo and Brandon Smith.
“I sat down with a couple of Wests
Tigers people earlier in the year and they were very keen to have me there,” Dotoi said.
“It is like a dream come true. Playing NRL is something I’ve wanted to do ever since I can remember.
“It’s what I’ve been working towards and I’m overwhelmed that this next step has happened.
“A lot of people have helped me along the way and made it possible for me to be where I am now.”
Dotoi has been one of Kirwan High’s key weapons during this year’s Aaron Payne Cup, and he has been a junior Blackhawks standout.
He placed much of the credit to the support of family, friends, the Townsville Blackhawks system and also the Kirwan High community.
“I’m blessed to be here,” Dotoi said. “I couldn’t be in a better place and the support I’ve received has been amazing.”