LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
As if it wasn't tough enough for Raiders star Albert Hopoate to sit out round one in Las Vegas for the arrival of his first child, he's also getting ready for some sleepless nights without the aid of coffee.
"I enjoy my sleep, but I know once baby comes, it will be very minimal.
I don't drink coffee, but I'll find a way," Hopoate told The Canberra Times.
Being a devout Mormon from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, Hopoate steers clear of caffeine, making impending baby duties as a first-time dad a challenge.
Fortunately, he can turn to his family for support, especially his dad, former NRL player John Hopoate, who has a brood of 11 kids and soon-to-be eight grandchildren.
"I'm one of 11 kids, so mum and dad will definitely have some advice up their sleeve," Hopoate junior said.
Hopoate and his wife Bella are set to welcome a baby boy on March 6, but with the Raiders' US trip overlapping the due date and a crucial round one match against the New Zealand Warriors on March 2 at Allegiant Stadium, he didn't want to risk missing the big moment.
"I thought it was best to stay, to be here for my wife and baby, especially the first one," he said.
"I wanted to be there because family comes first over everything."