On Christmas Eve, Keaon Koloamatangi placed a significant call to Wayne Bennett, announcing his decision to leave South Sydney for a five-year contract with St George Illawarra starting in 2027. Bennett, who debuted the powerful forward in the NRL in 2020, received the news with a mix of disappointment and understanding.
The Background of Koloamatangi’s Rise
Bennett first encountered Koloamatangi in 2019 upon joining South Sydney. The young player, a club junior, struggled with fitness but showed raw potential. Sam Burgess, a South Sydney legend, encouraged Bennett to stick with him. ‘Wayne, he’s going to be good,’ Burgess assured the coach. Bennett trusted that judgment, providing the encouragement Koloamatangi needed to develop into a key enforcer.
Despite not always excelling in training, Koloamatangi’s dedication paid off. He transitioned from the edge to the middle of the forward pack midway through last season, delivering some of his strongest performances. His form earned him a spot on Australia’s Ashes tour, where he featured off the bench in all three Tests.
Bennett’s Reaction to the Departure
The Rabbitohs presented a competitive four-year offer to retain Koloamatangi, but the Dragons’ deal, averaging around $1 million per season, proved irresistible. Interest also came from clubs like Parramatta, the Roosters, North Queensland, and newcomers Perth.
Bennett expressed relief that Koloamatangi would remain for the current season. ‘Knowing we’ve got him another 12 months took some of the pain away,’ Bennett stated. ‘He can finish on a really good note.’ He reflected on Koloamatangi’s journey, noting his pride during his debut jersey presentation alongside his father, Izzy.
‘We made him a really good offer, but he got a longer offer from another club. I was never going to blame him for that. He’s been tremendous for our club. I was really happy for him,’ Bennett added. The coach’s fondness for Koloamatangi even extended to allowing his distinctive mullet hairstyle, a leniency not granted to others like Jai Arrow.
Koloamatangi’s Family-First Decision
After returning from the international tour in late November, Koloamatangi weighed his options carefully. With a fiancée, Heavenly, and two young children, Psalms and Saint, family security topped his priorities. ‘I have two little ones and my fiancée to look after, I have to think about my family – they’re my number one priority,’ he explained.
The Dragons’ offer provides long-term financial stability, allowing more quality time post-football. Heavenly, new to rugby league fandom, supported his choice fully. Koloamatangi contacted Bennett first with the news. ‘Wayne was the first person at Souths I called,’ he said. ‘He was proud of me. Wayne gave me my debut. I’d trust him with my life.’
Bennett responded supportively: ‘You probably never dreamt of being in the position you are now, and how far you’ve come.’ Koloamatangi appreciated the understanding, noting it was his first time fielding offers from multiple clubs. ‘I wanted to look after my kids. If I had no kids or a wife, it might have been a different story,’ he reflected.
Looking Ahead with the Dragons and Rabbitohs
St George Illawarra coach Shane Flanagan seeks leadership in the forward pack, and Koloamatangi’s experience will guide young talents like Toby and Ryan Couchman, Hamish Stewart, Dylan Egan, Loko Pasifiki Tonga, and Jacob Halangahu. Feedback from former teammates Damien Cook and Jaydn Su’A influenced the signing.
For now, Koloamatangi focuses on delivering for South Sydney. He aims to maintain the consistency of idols like Burgess and Jason Taumalolo, alongside modern stars such as Payne Haas, Addin Fonua-Blake, and Pat Carrigan. ‘Sam and Jason were at their best week in week out, and it’s that consistency I want in my game,’ he said.
The forward is motivated to end his Rabbitohs tenure on a high. ‘I’m hoping we can go out with a championship. I actually think we can win it,’ Koloamatangi declared. He plans to decide later this year on representing Australia or Tonga at the World Cup.
