Savelio Reveling In Hot Weather
Tue 16 Jan 2018, 04:46 PM
ANDRE Savelio knew he was in for some heat when he made his decision to have a crack at the NRL in Brisbane.
But he probably wasn't expecting to swelter in the 38 degrees the city was hit with last weekend.
The big English forward admitted to hiding away on Sunday, but says he is reveling in the rigours of the pre-season in Queensland.
He said it compares favourably to the bitter English winters he normally prepares in.
"I have enjoyed it," he said.
"I guess it is more the day that you aren't training and you just want to chill out and relax.
"They are the hard ones.
"But I have enjoyed it, the heat. It makes training more enjoyable, definitely more than working in the cold.
"(On Sunday) I just sat inside with my air con on, kicking back - anytime I walked out of my room, it hit me."
Born in New Zealand, Savelio moved to England as a toddler when his father Lokeni signed to play in the Super League.
Savelio too has set his sights abroad as he tries to follow in the footsteps of English forwards Sam Burgess and James Graham, who have been roaring successes in the NRL.
He admits the training is a step up as he begins a two-year contract with the Broncos.
"I just always wanted to try this when I was younger," he said.
"I have had a couple of talks with Brisbane in the past, but I just thought the time was right now to come over and try my hand.
"The training is a lot tougher.
"But it was what I expected - I wasn't coming over and expecting this to be a walk (in the park).
"Across the board it is a lot stronger.
"Sessions are long, which is draining on your energy.
"It is not really fitness, not anaerobic or anything like that - it is just draining mentally."