Nofoaluma reflects on career ahead of 150-game milestone

Wests Tigers winger David Nofoaluma has reflected on his nine-year NRL career ahead of his 150th first grade game.

The local junior will become the 13th Wests Tigers player to reach the milestone when he runs onto Central Coast Stadium for the Round 11 clash against the New Zealand Warriors on Friday.

Nofoaluma has experienced the highs and lows of rugby league across the span of his career and is grateful to have played as many games as he has for the club he loves.

“Throughout the whole journey, it’s been a crazy ride,” Nofoaluma said.

“I’ve experienced the lows and the highs — that makes me feel a sense of achievement.

“Reflecting on my career, I can look back and see a lot that I have achieved and lots that I’m proud of.

“Experiencing the highs and the lows makes me appreciate the good times. I’ve always put in my best for the club and my teammates.”

Being a one-club player, Nofoaluma says he couldn’t imagine playing for any other team despite attracting other offers throughout his career.

“This club means everything to me,” he said

I’ve always loved this club and this is my home.

David Nofoaluma

“I wouldn’t be here playing my 150th if it wasn’t for the club. This club plays a massive part in my life.

“I’m very grateful for the opportunity to play for the club and to reach this milestone.”

From scoring 80 NRL tries to being named in the 2020 Dally Team of the Year and winning Try of the Year in 2013 — Nofoaluma has achieved plenty since arriving on the NRL scene in 2013.

But when asked what his career highlight is, the winger went right back to the start.

“I’d have to say my debut game,” he said.

“To get that first taste of the NRL and the excitement of playing my first game was great.”

What’s the next goal for Nofoaluma following his 150th game? 

“The next goal is to help the younger boys who are coming through,” he said.

“Through my experiences, I’ve learnt a lot along the way and now I have the opportunity to pass on my knowledge. There’s a new crop of players coming in and I have the opportunity to help them and the club.

“I really want to reach the finals and I’m going to help drive that. It’s where this club deserves to be.

“It’s a massive club and for this club to be successful would be a big thing and something I want to be a part of.”