LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Joseph Tapine's journey to 200 games with the Canberra Raiders has been shaped by both expectations and personal growth since his arrival from Newcastle in 2016.
Initially a "tall and skinny second rower with plenty of ability," the then-21-year-old Kiwi faced two significant challenges.
First, he needed to grapple with the high expectations that accompanied his physical gifts.
His skills, athleticism, and aggression brought a sense of hype to his new team.
Second, quite literally, Tapine struggled with weight training for much of his first seven NRL seasons, particularly his five years with the Raiders.
Despite the common belief that "pumping iron is a prerequisite to perform at any level of rugby league," he largely avoided lifting weights during this period.
Reflecting on his early days, former teammate Sia Soliola remarked, "When he first arrived we quickly understood the potential he had...
that was really impressive." Tapine possessed a "great natural talent" that made playing look easy, further adding to the anticipation surrounding his career.
Through perseverance and dedication, Tapine has transformed his approach, breaking through both the physical and psychological barriers that once held him back.
His journey reflects the evolution of a player who has not only embraced his potential but has also matured into a key leader for the Raiders.
This milestone in his career is a testament to his hard work and commitment to improving every aspect of his game.