Tevita Pangai Junior rubbed shoulders with some of sport’s biggest names during his brief switch codes to rugby union – before reuniting with Willie Peters at Hull KR.
The powerhouse forward sought advice from Wigan Warriors legend Shaun Edwards and former Hull FC and Castleford Tigers boss Lee Radford during his short-lived venture into union, before deciding league was where he belonged.
Now, the next chapter of Pangai Jr’s career sees him working with another big name – former Commonwealth lightweight boxing champion Tommy Coyle.
After his Warrington Wolves U-turn for family reasons, Pangai Jr quickly embarked on a rugby union adventure, starting in the sixth tier before trials with clubs including former European giants Biarritz, now playing in France’s Pro D2.
“My decision was sort of last minute,” said the former New South Wales State of Origin representative.
“I’m a bit of a sponge and I wanted to earn my stripes and learn from the bottom. I thought that was the best thing for me – get amongst it and train. I hadn’t played the sport since I was 12.
“I’m not too arrogant to go to the sixth division, even if I’ve played at the highest level in rugby league. It was a good experience and an eye-opener.”
Pangai Jr revealed he leaned on the experiences of Edwards and Radford as he tried to master a new code.
“I spoke to a lot of ex-league players, like Shaun Edwards and Lee Radford,” he said.
“It was good to learn from them and see their transition into rugby union.
“But maybe it wasn’t for me. The lineouts were too hard for me to learn. I liked all the other stuff, but the lineouts and scrums were hard. A lot goes into it and I’ve got a newfound respect for them.”
Edwards, one of rugby union’s most decorated coaches after his hugely successful switch from league, welcomed Pangai Jr into his world while the pair were both based in the south of France.
“It’s a small community in Perpignan. We all catch up and all the wives go to the gym together,” Pangai Jr said.
“I got in touch with Shaun and I like learning. I like the detailed stuff and Shaun was awesome.
“We watched a lot of Top 14 games together and talked about rugby league. It was awesome.”
His rugby union education also included conversations with former Hull FC and Castleford coach Radford, who is now part of Scotland’s coaching staff.
“Chris Satae gave me his number and we spoke about rugby league and the differences,” Pangai Jr said.
“I come across as a bit of a hot-head, but I love those conversations. They were really good. He’s doing really well and I’m happy for him.”
Back in Super League with Hull KR, Pangai Jr admits he arrived at Sewell Group Craven Park carrying a few extra kilos after enjoying life in France.
“I obviously had a bit of work to do,” he admitted.
“I was a bit underdone. I’m living with Tyrone May and he’s keeping me on the straight and narrow. We’re eating good food and he’s keeping me lean.
“It’s been pretty tough. I’m just trying to get in good shape and earn the boys’ respect. They set a high standard after last year and I want to add what I can to the team and be an asset to the club.
“I’ve been enjoying training with Tommy Coyle and we’ll be doing some more work once the calf is 100 per cent.
“He’s been awesome. He’s big on finding my why and, for me, that’s my family. They’re a big reason why I want to do well during my stint at Hull KR, and we’ll see what happens.”
The 30-year-old, who has made almost 200 senior appearances across spells with Brisbane Broncos, Penrith Panthers, Canterbury Bulldogs, Dolphins and Catalans Dragons, as well as representing Tonga, also believes his best rugby is still to come.
“It’s weird to say that at 30, but I don’t think I’ve reached my peak on a consistent basis,” he said.
“If I can master my routine and nutrition, which I’m working on, hopefully we’ll see my best rugby in my 30s.”
Pangai Jr, however, received a six-match ban following Hull KR’s defeat to Leeds Rhinos for Grade F eye gouging, although the Robins have the right to appeal.