Bulldogs.com.au catches up with winger Curtis Rona to discuss the pre-season, what his focus for 2016 is and how he improves on his outstanding 2015 season.
Name: Curtis Rona
Junior Club: Joondalup Giants
Birthplace: New Plymouth, NZ
What do you like to do away from football?
Away from football I like to hit up the play station and spend some quality time with my wife and newborn daughter.
What was your first job?
My first job was as a scaffolder.
What are your goals in Rugby League?
My main goal in rugby league is to win a premiership with the Bulldogs.
What do you love about Rugby League?
I think the thing I love most about rugby league is making new friends all the time.
Who has been the biggest influence on your career?
My biggest influence would be my family and friends, they always keep me grounded.
What is your earliest league memory?
My earliest memory in Rugby League was wearing head gear in under 8’s.
What is your best moment in league so far?
My best memory in Rugby League was my debut for the Cowboys in NRL.
Best piece of advice you have been given?
Never give up.
What advice would you give to a young rugby league player?
Always stay positive, it will help you in the good times and the bad.
Who is the player you looked up to as a kid and why?
The player I most looked up to as a kid was Manu “The Beast” Vatuvai.
What are your memories of your first NRL game?
I scored a try in my first game, one of the best feelings ever.
Favourite sportsman and why?
I think it would have to be Usain Bolt, his speed and power is staggering.
What can’t you live without?
I can’t live without my phone.
What player do you most enjoy playing with/against?
I would have to say Johnathan Thurston, it’s an honour to share the field with him.
What is the TV show you never miss?
My favourite TV shows are Ballers and Game of Thrones.
What is on your bucket list?
I think travelling the world would have to be right up there on my bucket list.
If you could play another sport, what would it be?
I think if I didn’t play rugby league I would try out Golf or Basketball.
If you weren’t playing league, what would you be doing?
If I was not playing league right now I would be a physio.
How would you like to be remembered at the end of your career?
I think I would like to be remembered as a peoples person above all else.