The only Sydney Archdiocesan Catholic Schools student named in the Australian Schoolboys team, he is living the life every athlete dreams of with his win-win situation of a school-based traineeship studying sport and recreation.
In his final year of studies, the 18-year-old’s traineeship with the Bulldogs is revolutionary in leading a new generation of athletes pursuing sport and education simultaneously.
“I started out as a junior at St John’s Eagles and now I’m locked in with the Bulldogs for three years after they approached me,” he said.
He has represented NSW, played in the City vs Country Origin, received the SG Ball Cup’s Bulldogs Player of the Year and made history by taking down New Zealand in the Pacific Nations Cup representing his country Samoa.
He now plays in the Jersey Flegg Cup with the Bulldogs and is thrilled to be playing in the Australian Schoolboys team.
“It’s just the best feeling,” he said.
“Not only making Australian Schoolboys for U18s but also U15s for the merit side. I made it twice so that’s pretty awesome.”
Holy Spirit commends the school-based traineeship for the direction and drive it has given Joash.
“Because he has something in his life that is fulfilling, he is doing well on his journey to represent a high level in rugby league,” praised Lisa Royall, Holy Spirit Careers Pathway Coordinator.
