Peter Mata’utia could have taken the easy option heading into the final stages of his rugby league career.
But, the ex-NRL and English Super League star is still keen to challenge himself.
It’s one of the reasons he’s joining his former mentor Ian “Bubba” Bourke at the Lakes United Seagulls for the 2024 Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) season.
“There were a few things that appealed to me,” the 33-year-old said.
“Obviously, the junior system that Lakes have established there; their under-19s won it last season; and Phyth’s (Dylan Phythian) at the club.
“I was looking forward to playing with him again.
“Honestly, the easiest thing for me could have been to link up with Maitland.
“The Pickers sort of remind me of how Wests used to be… you know, just too good for everyone, they keep winning.
“So, I wanted my first year to be a bit of a challenge and I’m excited.
“I also felt the Seagulls really wanted me more than the other clubs.
“When I spoke to the officials, they believed I could have a big influence on the youngsters.
“If I can make an impact, or a positive difference, with this team, I’ll be happy with it.”
Guiding young players is close to Mata’utia’s heart, too.
And, his experience – after 76 matches with the Newcastle Knights and St George Illawarra Dragons and a further 123 games for the Castleford Tigers and Warrington Wolves – will benefit the Lakes United nursery.
“Over the past few seasons, I’ve been mentoring a lot of people, from young ages to nurses and schoolteachers,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“So, it’s something I’m really passionate about.
“You know, helping others to find their purpose in life and not just on the field, but off it as well.
“Growing up, one of my little brothers retired from league early.
“Mentally, he just wasn’t right.
“I feel if I knew what I did now back then, I would’ve helped him and he’d probably still be in the game.
“That was the first inkling that made me want to push that kind of stuff.
“It’s our purpose to try and share our lessons and the mistakes we’ve made.
“Then that’s one less the next generation does themselves.
“So, hearing the Seagulls was a very well-run junior/development organisation suited me.”
Knowing that it’s possibly Bubba’s last year there, I wanted to pay him back for all the things and help he’s given me.
Peter Mata’utia
Mata’utia admitted a start in the Real NRL was a dream come true.
“I’ve always wanted to play in the competition,” he said.
“As a kid, I was keen to don the boots for Raymond Terrace.
“They had a gun team back then with George Carmont, Stuart Carmont and Jamie Batty.
“So, it was something that I always wanted to do.
“Plus, my little brother Pat has been playing at Maitland for the past few years.
“When I knew that I was going to retire and come home, I started talking to a few Newcastle clubs and began watching the games a bit more.
“Nothing’s changed, it’s still a tough competition.
“And, I’m impressed by the standard.
“It doesn’t surprise me when I see all the young kids coming through, playing in the Real NRL, they’re good enough to play here, or the Knights’ NSW Cup or NRL team.
“So, I wanted to be in a position where I’m still able to do my best.
“Obviously, I didn’t want to come here, too old, and then get banged around too much,” he added with a laugh.
As for Lakes United’s chances, Mata’utia’s optimistic.
“My aim, for this team, is to be in the top five this year… that’s the goal,” he said.
“Then, if you get in that position, anything can happen.
“I believe it’s a realistic ambition, too.
“So, it’s something I’ll be pushing with the boys and doing what I can to help them achieve it as well.
“I’m pretty happy with the squad we’ve assembled.
“We have made some good signings, including Matt Cooper and Jeremy Gibson from the Macquarie Scorpions.
“We’ve also picked up the Group 21 Player of the Year Tayhler Paora, from the Denman Devils.
“So, it’s an exciting time.”
Mata’utia’s final words, however, were saved for Bourke.
“I’ve known Bubba for a long time,” he said.
“He’s one of my mentors.
“And, knowing that it’s possibly his last year there, I wanted to pay him back for all the things and help he’s given me.
“He’s so highly-respected.
“Bubba is a good people’s coach.
“I think that’s the most important thing [as a coach] is to make sure you have a great relationship with your players.
“At the end of the day, there’s a lot more going on out there in our lives than league.
“So, when a coach understands that, you sort of respect him more and you develop a better understanding of each other.”
For more sports stories:
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Perfect Pickers best in the state
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Lions soak up a year of success
- REAL NRL SEASON REVIEW: Goannas made their presence felt in 2023
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