Kelma Tuilagi has once again captured attention not just for his physical prowess on the field, but for the way he speaks about the collective culture of his team. Since joining the Parramatta Eels in 2024, the Samoan‑born forward has been vocal about the squad’s relentless work ethic and camaraderie. His comments highlight the values that drive the club’s performance week in and week out.
In a recent club interview, Tuilagi emphasized the intensity of their training sessions, saying he’s been “impressed by everyone’s full‑on effort” from early morning drills to post‑game recovery. His alignment with this ethos is no surprise—during his time with Manly and Parramatta, he has consistently set the tone, arriving early, challenging teammates, and demanding excellence from himself and others. Coach Anthony Seibold even noted that Tuilagi broke off his holiday to attend a pre‑season camp early, a testament to his dedication .
Tuilagi’s work ethic has translated seamlessly to match days. In 2024, he made 21 appearances for the Eels, tallying four tries and reaffirming his position as a consistent contributor . Beyond the statistics, it’s his relentless pursuit of improvement—both for himself and his squad—that stands out. He recently noted that players feed off each other’s energy, using that drive to raise the standard at every session.
The ripple effects of this attitude are evident across the roster. Younger forwards in particular are benefiting, stepping up in both fitness and tactical awareness. One analyst remarked that the addition of Tuilagi “reshaped the dynamics” of the forward pack, bringing a synergy that other players naturally responded to . With competition for spots heating up, Tuilagi’s standard-setting presence has helped to build resilience and accountability.
Off the field, this collaborative spirit is equally strong. Tuilagi credits the strong bonds formed in team gatherings and informal catch-ups as the glue that unites the group. “There’s a real positive energy,” he said about the Eels, a sentiment echoed by coach Seibold, who praised his influence in fostering team cohesion .
Looking ahead, Tuilagi believes that this collective work ethic will be the cornerstone of Parramatta’s evolution into a genuine premiership contender. He anticipates that the standard they’ve set now—starting with summer training and rolling into the regular season—will carry forward, pushing expectations higher for the remainder of the 2025 campaign and beyond.
Ultimately, Kelma Tuilagi’s comments are more than just praise they’re a roadmap. His admiration for his teammates’ work ethic reflects a deeper belief that collective effort, accountability, and unity are key to sustained success. As Tuilagi will likely be back with the club through at least 2026, his leadership in underscoring these values sets the stage for his lasting impact at Parramatta .
