Keaon Koloamatangi is relishing his first full pre-season as a front-rower and is determined to give South Sydney everything he has in 2026, despite his impending move to the Dragons.
Keaon fully focused on 2026
Despite signing with St George Illawarra for 2027, Koloamatangi insisted his future move is not a distraction and that he has already processed the decision mentally. The forward made headlines when he called Wayne Bennett on Christmas Eve to inform him of his choice to join the Dragons.
“I’ve put it past me already, dealt with that last year so I’m just ready to put my best foot forward for the club,” Koloamatangi said. “No matter who I play for I’m always gonna try my best no matter what jersey I have on so that time will come but for now it’s 100% for the Bunnies.”
He described the Christmas Eve phone call with Bennett as straightforward, explaining his reasons for the decision. The master coach was supportive and understood the move, allowing Koloamatangi to draw a line under the matter and focus entirely on the season ahead.
Front Row Challenge
After transitioning to the front row during last season, Koloamatangi has embraced the physical demands of his new position during the off-season. The prop revealed the switch has brought a fresh challenge at this stage of his career, though he acknowledged the middle is much tougher during pre-season work.
“My first pre-season in the front row so I’m looking forward to a big year hopefully,” he said. “Something different, a lot harder in the middle in the pre-season but I enjoyed my time when I got moved there last year and I felt like I played alright so I just wanted to knuckle down and just trying to be the best player I can be for the club.”
The forward confirmed he is injury-free and ready for round one, having benefited from completing a full pre-season in his new position. He emphasised his focus on leading the team each week as he settles into the demanding role.
All eyes on the Dolphins
Looking ahead to round one against the Dolphins, Koloamatangi emphasised the importance of consistency over the course of a long season. He recalled how the Rabbitohs sat first after 11 games a few years ago but still missed the finals, stressing that avoiding consecutive losses matters more than a fast start. The team will face Wayne Bennett’s former club with their best effort, but Koloamatangi noted the veteran coach remains characteristically calm about the reunion.
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