Fa'amanu Brown Makes Immediate Impact for Dragons After Joining Eighth Club in 11 Seasons

Fa'amanu Brown, a rugby league player, has joined the St George Illawarra Dragons, marking his eighth club in an 11-season career. The 29-year-old made an instant impact for his new team, playing a role in their 30-12 victory over the Warriors on Friday, just days after arriving from England.

Brown's path to the Dragons has been a long and winding one, taking him from his hometown of Christchurch, New Zealand to clubs across two continents and four different leagues. He flew from England on Sunday, signed with St George Illawarra on Tuesday, and was on the field contributing to their win by Friday.

Despite encountering challenges throughout his career, including a leg injury that doctors said would prevent him from playing again, Brown has persevered and made the most of his opportunities. "I'm just grateful to still be playing rugby league," Brown said. "The Dragons have given me a chance and I want to repay the faith they've shown in me."

Brown credits his upbringing and support system, particularly his fiancée, for his resilience and determination. "I've been through a lot in my career, but I've always had people who believed in me and pushed me to keep going," he reflected. "If I can make it, anyone can. It's all about hard work and never giving up."

The Dragons have now won two straight games and sit 7th on the NRL ladder. They will look to continue their winning ways when they face the Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day in the traditional clash at Allianz Stadium. The match has officially sold out, with the Dragons eyeing their 13th Anzac Cup victory.

Why this matters: Brown's story of perseverance and making an immediate impact for the Dragons highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers. His journey also serves as an inspiration for athletes facing adversity to never give up on their dreams.

For their upcoming Anzac Day match against the Roosters, the Dragons have made some changes to their squad. Jack Bird returns from a concussion layoff, while Mikaele Ravalawa is out due to knee soreness. Christian Tuipulotu and Fa'amanu Brown have been named for their second games with the Red V. The Roosters welcome back Dominic Young from suspension and Sam Walker returns to the starting lineup after missing two weeks with a head injury.

Key Takeaways

• Fa'amanu Brown, a rugby league player, joins St George Illawarra Dragons.
• Brown's career has taken him across 2 continents and 4 leagues in 11 seasons.
• Despite challenges, Brown perseveres and makes an immediate impact for the Dragons.
• The Dragons sit 7th on the NRL ladder and face the Roosters on Anzac Day.
• The Anzac Day match is sold out as the Dragons eye their 13th Anzac Cup victory.