JUST IN: HORO RETURNS TO THE HOME OF THE PARRAMATTA EELS TO CHAT WITH THE ROOKIES WHO MADE A SPLASH IN 2025
Featuring Rookie of the Year, Isaiah Iongi — On His Breakout Season, Tongan Pride, and Team Spirit…
In a season filled with heart, grit, and a fresh wave of young talent, the Parramatta Eels have had much to celebrate — none more so than the emergence of a new generation of stars who carried the club’s blue and gold with pride and promise. And at the heart of it all, one familiar face made his way back to the club’s training base this week — former Eels player turned analyst Justin Horo — to catch up with the team’s standout rookies who defined 2025.
From the training paddock to the locker room, laughter filled the air as Horo sat down with Isaiah Iongi, the Eels’ newly crowned Rookie of the Year, for an in-depth chat about his incredible journey, his Tongan roots, and the brotherhood that helped shape his breakout campaign.
A Rookie Season to Remember
It’s been a whirlwind year for Isaiah Iongi — the 21-year-old fullback whose fearless runs, quick footwork, and game-changing defense made him one of the most talked-about young players in the NRL. From his debut match in Round 3 to his electrifying tries under the bright lights at CommBank Stadium, Iongi’s impact was immediate.
“Everything happened so fast,” Iongi said with a grin during the chat with Horo. “One week I was training hard, hoping for a call-up, and the next I was running out in front of thousands wearing the Eels jersey. It’s something I’ll never forget.”
What made his debut season stand out wasn’t just his individual flair, but his composure. Whether under the high ball or defending the try line, Iongi played with the poise of a veteran — a quality that didn’t go unnoticed by his teammates and fans alike.
Horo, nodding appreciatively, asked, “Did you always believe you’d get to this point so soon?”
Iongi paused for a moment. “I always believed in the work. My dad used to tell me, ‘Talent will open the door, but hard work keeps it open.’ So I just focused on that — working hard, staying humble, and learning from the boys around me.”
Tongan Heritage and Family Pride
Born and raised in Sydney’s western suburbs, Isaiah Iongi proudly traces his roots to the islands of Tonga — a heritage that runs deep in his playing style and spirit. His family’s presence has been a constant source of strength, something he reflected on warmly with Horo.
“When I pull on that jersey, I think about my parents, my grandparents, and everyone back home in Tonga,” he said. “My heritage means everything to me. The way we play — with heart, with pride — that’s something I carry every time I step on the field.”
Horo, himself of Samoan heritage, shared in that connection. “There’s something special about seeing Polynesian players thrive in the NRL,” he said. “It’s more than sport; it’s about family, culture, and representing where you come from.”
Isaiah nodded. “Exactly. I want young Tongan kids out there to see that they can dream big too — whether it’s in footy or anything else. We come from strong families, strong values. That’s what drives me every day.”
The Eels Brotherhood
While Iongi’s individual rise was impressive, he’s quick to point out that his success wouldn’t have been possible without the people around him — the coaches, the senior players, and his fellow rookies who turned the 2025 season into one of unity and belief.
“The older boys have been massive,” Iongi said. “Guys like Mitchell Moses, Clint Gutherson — they’ve been like big brothers. They push us hard but also keep things fun. Gutho especially — he’s always encouraging the young fellas to back ourselves.”
Horo laughed, recalling his own days as a young Eel under a strong leadership group. “It’s good to see that culture still alive,” he said. “You can tell this team plays for each other.”
Iongi agreed. “That’s what makes the Eels special. We’re a family. Everyone has your back — whether you’re playing your 200th game or your first. We celebrate together, we hurt together, and that’s what builds trust.”
Lessons from 2025
The Eels’ 2025 campaign was marked by both promise and pressure. Injuries, close finishes, and moments of brilliance defined their journey — and for rookies like Iongi, it was a crash course in the realities of professional rugby league.
“It’s been a learning curve for sure,” he said. “There were games where things didn’t go my way — dropped balls, missed tackles — but the boys and the coaches were always there to remind me that mistakes are part of growth. You just keep turning up.”
Horo, who knows the ups and downs of NRL life, asked what the biggest lesson of the year had been.
“Patience,” Iongi answered after a pause. “You can’t rush the process. There’s so much to learn — not just about the game, but about yourself. I’ve learned to trust the process, trust my teammates, and stay consistent.”
The Future Looks Bright
As the conversation turned toward what’s next, Iongi’s eyes lit up. “This is just the beginning,” he said confidently. “We’ve got such a young and hungry group here at Parra. We want to bring something special to our fans — they’ve been incredible all year.”
For the Eels, that belief is everything. Their 2025 rookies — a mix of raw talent and fearless energy — have injected new life into the club’s ambitions. And with veterans mentoring them closely, the foundations for future success look stronger than ever.
Horo wrapped up their chat by congratulating Iongi on his Rookie of the Year award. “You’ve done your family and your club proud, mate,” he said. “Keep that fire burning — the Eels’ future looks bright with players like you leading the way.”
Isaiah smiled, humble yet determined. “Thank you, bro. I’m just getting started.”
A Legacy Renewed
For Justin Horo, returning to the Eels’ home ground wasn’t just about catching up with young stars — it was a reminder of the club’s enduring culture of resilience and pride. From his playing days in blue and gold to now witnessing the next generation rise, it’s clear that the Parramatta spirit remains as strong as ever.
And for fans, the emergence of talents like Isaiah Iongi signals more than hope — it’s a glimpse of the future. A future built on heritage, hard work, and heart.
As the sun set over CommBank Stadium, one thing was certain: the Eels’ 2025 rookies have arrived, and they’re here to make history.
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