LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
'This could be the ticket out': The emotional car ride that ignited Jarome Luai's stellar Penrith career
There's been a lot of chatter about his mega deal to join the Wests Tigers, but Jarome Luai has spilled the beans on the most crucial contract he ever penned.
News has emerged that a significant amount of attention has been placed on Jarome Luai's jaw-dropping $6 million deal to unite with the Wests Tigers in the upcoming season.
However, the rugby league star gets teary-eyed when reflecting on the initial contract he inked with Penrith, a deal that served as his family's "escape route" following a challenging upbringing.
Luai, now 27 and a three-time premiership winner, finds himself in a position where he can provide financial stability for his loved ones.
Yet, life wasn't always a bed of roses for the youngster hailing from Mt Druitt.
The Panthers hero fondly recalls sitting beside his father at a Darling Harbour hotel earlier this year to announce his five-year agreement with the Tigers.
A decade ago, he and his father shared a similar moment of joy when Penrith expressed an interest in him.
"I might have been cruising in the car with my old man.
I was just a wee lad when I signed my first contract, and while it wasn't a fortune, I do remember the moment vividly," reminisced the St Marys junior.
"I recall my dad getting all choked up as we discussed it, mentioning that this could be the golden ticket.
That was the essence of it for us.
"Growing up in Mt Druitt, that's how we viewed footy and sports as an avenue for the family's advancement.
It provides a fascinating peek into the struggles and aspirations of individuals when they secure their inaugural contract.