Joshua Rivera
Updated on: October 11, 2024 2:21 am GMT
Viliame Kikau, a standout player for the Canterbury Bulldogs, is reflecting on the tumultuous beginning of his career at the club, marked by a controversial photo leak that made headlines before he had even stepped onto the field. As the Bulldogs prepare for a crucial finals match against Manly, Kikau’s journey emphasizes resilience and redemption after a challenging year.
Controversial Beginnings
Kikau’s tenure with the Bulldogs began on a sour note when a photo revealing his contract agreement with the club was leaked prematurely. This incident occurred shortly after the Panthers’ triumphant 2021 grand final victory. During a meeting meant to finalize his four-year deal with Bulldogs General Manager Phil Gould and then-coach Trent Barrett, a staff member of the Canterbury Leagues Club took a clandestine snapshot that went viral within minutes. Kikau expressed his frustration at the time, noting, “Five minutes after I left the Canterbury Leagues Club, it was already out on social media.
This moment of embarrassment, however, did not deter Kikau from committing to the Bulldogs. Despite the initial chaos surrounding his arrival, Kikau recognized that he had made the right decision. He attributed his move to the longstanding relationship he had developed with Gould, stating that it was an easy choice for him to follow Gould to Belmore.
Injury and Setbacks
The path forward was not smooth for Kikau as he initially faced significant health challenges. After pushing himself too hard during a training session in March, he suffered a ruptured pectoral muscle, sidelining him until July. This injury came at a crucial time when the Bulldogs were struggling. Coach Cameron Ciraldo feared that Kikau might consider leaving due to the team’s early-season struggles, but the player proved his commitment by focusing on recovery and returning as a key asset for the squad.
Kikau reflected on the disappointment of being an observer rather than a participant during a difficult period for the club, saying, “I was so disappointed at myself; I felt like I let the team down not being out there with them.” His determination to contribute to the team’s success and positive culture did not waver during this time.
Aiming for Redemption
With Kikau back on the field, his performance has garnered attention. He has played a crucial role in turning the team’s fortunes around, ultimately leading him to win the George Peponis Medal for Canterbury’s best player. As he prepares for the elimination final against Manly, his focus remains on continued improvement and team success. Kikau expressed optimism about the Bulldogs’ future and the hard work they’ve put in to change the culture within the club, stating, “It’s pretty good to hear some people doubting us this year. We focused on what we could control, and now we reap the rewards and play finals.”
Looking Ahead
As Kikau reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of first impressions and how they can be misleading. The Bulldogs’ difficult 2023 season served as a learning experience for him, one that has shaped his current mindset. “First impressions are important to me,” he noted. “Coming from one of the teams at the top of the table, we knew what we were trying to do, trying to change the culture. It didn’t work for me at first, but I took it as a blessing.”
The upcoming finals match not only represents a chance for Kikau and the Bulldogs to demonstrate their growth but also serves as a moment of personal redemption for a player who has faced significant hurdles. Expectations are high, with around 50,000 fans anticipated to attend the game at Accor Stadium. Kikau’s resilience and determination exemplify the spirit of the Bulldogs as they look to make a significant impact in the finals.
The Bulldogs are getting ready for their first finals game on Sunday, and Kikau is excited to shine on the field. He’s not just a great athlete; he has also faced challenges and worked hard to be the best in the tough world of NRL.
