Isaiya Katoa has praised good friend Joseph Suaalii for leaping back to rugby, and declared he was open to following suit – but to play for the All Blacks, not the Wallabies.
The teen playmaker now has the added responsibility of leading NRL newcomers the Dolphins around the park following injuries to Sean O’Sullivan and Anthony Milford.
Katoa, just 19, was a standout for Barker College and represented the Australian Schoolboys team last year. He met with Super Rugby team the ACT Brumbies before he committed to a three-year deal with the Dolphins.
On top of being pleased to having Suaalii return to the 15-man code at the end of next year, Katoa told the Herald there was no way he could close the door on doing likewise, especially given he grew up playing the game.
“I’m so glad for Joey, and either code he plays he was going to be a superstar,” said Katoa, who spent time playing league up an age group with Suaalii at Glenmore Park.
Isaiya Katoa applauded good friend Joseph Suaalii for switching codes, and would not rule out doing something similar.Credit:Getty Images
“We spoke after my debut [in round one], he was happy for me, and actually apologised to me for jamming me in the first half when we played.
“He’s one of the most genuine and humble guys you will meet.
“I’d never close out the opportunity to play rugby union because I grew up playing rugby union. It was the first sport I played.
“I haven’t had any contact with Eddie [Jones]. I had a bit of exposure with the Brumbies last year, and it was good to see the professional systems in place with rugby union and compare them to the professional systems in place in rugby league.
“Who knows, maybe down the line … but it would definitely be with New Zealand. I was born in New Zealand and spent my first nine or ten years in New Zealand. All I wanted to be was an All Black. I’d never close that door.”
Isaiya Katoa on the charge for Barker College against Knox Grammar last year.Credit:Barker College
Katoa’s father Kotoni told the Herald last month his dream was to see his boy play for the All Blacks, and how “it would be his biggest dream as well, to be an All Black; he still has that dream in the back of his mind”.
New All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has already made it publicly known he will be keeping tabs on all available talent playing professionally on Australian shores.
Katoa who is locked in until the end of 2025 with the NRL’s new team, said his immediate focus was helping the Dolphins get back in the winner’s circle, and learning everything possible from coach Wayne Bennett and the senior players.
Katoa also welcomed the challenge of taking on more responsibility at the Dolphins as he unites with Kodi Nikorima – his third halves partner in just four NRL games.
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