The Manly Sea Eagles have shown a positive response to Kieran Foran's recent appointment as head coach.
During his bye week, the respected Manly icon took the time to travel to the Central Coast to check in on Blue Haumole Olakau'atu, who was recently left out of the squad.
Their bond is strong, having played together in 2021 and 2022 while representing the Sea Eagles. Moreover, Foran has helped Olakau'atu reach new heights in his performance.
This season, Olakau'atu has emerged as a leading forward, delivering an impressive performance for the NSW Blues early in the series before cramps sidelined him.
He made more ground than any other forward in that match and followed it up with a remarkable showing against South Sydney, racking up 266 run metres and breaking through tackles with ease.
Surprisingly, Blues coach Laurie Daley chose to name the 27-year-old as the 20th man in the second game, a decision that puzzled many given his form.
In response, Foran made the commitment to travel 200 kilometres to the Blues camp to offer his support and encouragement after Olakau'atu's exclusion.
Footage captured by Nine showed Foran engaged in conversation with both Daley and Olakau'atu on Thursday.
"I know it can be really hard as a player when you miss out on these representative sides. He was looking forward to playing against Queensland," Foran remarked to the Sydney Morning Herald.