Greek national team rugby league player Robert Tuliatu is heading over to London to join the Broncos forward line for their upcoming 2022 Betfred Championship season after signing a one-year deal pending visa approval.

“With the lockdown I had a few opportunities abroad fall through. I was a bit concerned a similar situation would happen, but when this one came through I was ecstatic,” Tuliatu told Neos Kosmos. 

The United Kingdom is not uncharted territory for the 26-year-old, having played with West Wales Raiders before a spell with the London Skolars.

Tuliatu’s familiarity with recently appointed Broncos Coach Jermaine Coleman spans back to his Skolars days, where he was under his guidance during the London stint. When he found out about Coleman’s move to the Broncos, Tuliatu made sure to get in touch right away.

“When I found out about the appointment, I gave him a call and the rest took care of itself.”

READ MORE: Power and poise: Q&A with Greece’s and Cessnock Goannas’ Robert Tuliatu

Coleman went on to share his excitement to welcome the young Australian prop to London once again.

“Rob is a powerful ball carrier with good footwork and a great offload game. He will bring a different dimension and size to our pack,” he told Broncos Media.

“2022 is a huge year for Greece RL and I expect to see Rob have a big season with us working hard and building up to the World Cup.”

Although at first glance people may not guess Tuliatu has Greek heritage, his connection to his grandparent’s motherland runs deep. Born to a mother with Cretan heritage, and a Samoan father means that the 26-year-old athlete is full of fiery passion and resilience.

While Tuliatu has a new highlight to add to his sporting CV, he undoubtedly still has his sights set on joining Greece and bringing home the cup.

“Every time I play, I play as if it’s going to be my last game, as if 100 Greek players are going to come out of the woodwork and they’re going to take my spot, so I’ve got to be appreciative every time I get to put on the blue and white jersey,” he said.

“With the World Cup at the end of the year and the opportunity to wear the Greek colours, I’m looking forward to playing and training in a professional environment and playing the best rugby league possible.”