Two years after switching from rugby union, Mark Nawaqanitawase has become one of the NRL's most exciting talents. On Sunday he will run out for the Sydney Roosters in his first grand final — a moment his mother never thought she would see.
Fiona Tovehi did not want her son to play rugby league. But a touching gesture from two Roosters greats, whose identities have not been detailed, convinced her to let him pursue the sport. Now living at home with his mother, the 26-year-old still relies on her for domestic duties.
"He's not domesticated at all," Tovehi said. "The kid has got it pretty good. He's going to get a rude shock when he goes to Japan."
Nawaqanitawase is set to spend two seasons playing in Japan's rugby competition before a likely tilt with the Wallabies at next year's Rugby World Cup. But first comes the grand final, where he will aim to cap a remarkable rise with a premiership.
Tovehi, who has watched her son turn almost anything into a ball over 26 years, admits he cannot cook a steak, struggles with the washing machine and rarely makes his bed. She is also one of the few people willing to jokingly critique his defence.
Despite the gentle teasing, the pride in her son's achievements is evident as he prepares to play on the NRL's biggest stage.