Wests Tigers players were a big hit at the NRL Fan Fest in Sydney, as the countdown continues to this year’s Telstra Premiership Grand Final.
Every club is involved in the three-day festival which runs through until Friday, with Wests Tigers among the first clubs on show.
It can be a tricky time of the year to find players for community and promotional events, given most squads are now on official leave.
The NRL asked for five players from each club to attend and five of our boys were only too happy to help out.
Alex Seyfarth was first to arrive and was swamped by youngsters wanting pics and autographs.
He was soon joined by Jackson Hastings, Stefano Utoikamanu, Starford To’a, Junior Tupou and of course Timmy the Tiger!
All six were a huge hit at Fan Fest on Wednesday, interacting with Wests Tigers supporters and with fans from other NRL clubs as well.
Leema is a long-time Wests Tigers supporter who made the trip to Fan Fest from Liverpool. After a disappointing season she’s eager for 2023 to roll around.
“A lot didn’t go our way this season and it was really disappointing, but we’ve got to look past that now,” she said.
“We’re hoping next season is a lot brighter and I’m sure it will be.
Just look around here, there are loads of Wests Tigers fans about, all with big smiles on their faces.
Wests Tigers fan, Leema
“Bring on 2023 I say!”
Jackson Hastings was asked if he’d be happy for an impromptu chat on stage, and of course, it was not a problem.
When asked who he thought would win Sunday’s Grand Final he chose to sit on the fence, declaring the match would go to golden point.
He was more certain about the next line of questioning.
“So Jackson,” asked the MC. “Tell us, which of your teammates is the biggest joker?”
“That’s an easy one. Daine Laurie, closely followed by Brent Naden.
They both love a laugh, always carrying on like jokers."
Jackson Hastings
Well done fellas on a great day at 2022 Fan Fest.
A big thanks also to Costi’s Seafood for shouting the boys lunch!
