Canberra Raiders rookie Savelio Tamale has credited teammate Seb Kris for playing a pivotal role in his NRL debut against the New Zealand Warriors, showcasing the club's strong mentorship culture.
Tamale's Journey to the NRL
The 21-year-old outside back made his first-grade appearance in Round 8, 2025, after impressing in the NSW Cup. Tamale, who joined the Raiders from the Penrith Panthers' system, said Kris's guidance was instrumental in his preparation.
"Seb really helped me with the mental side of things," Tamale told the Canberra Times. "He told me to trust my training and not overthink. He's been through it all, so his advice was gold."
Kris's Influence and Leadership
Kris, a seasoned Raider with over 80 NRL games, has taken on a mentorship role for younger players. Tamale noted that Kris's experience in handling pressure was invaluable. "He just said, 'You belong here. Play your game.' That gave me a lot of confidence," Tamale added.
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has praised the team's culture, with senior players like Kris and Jarrod Croker guiding the next generation. "Seb is a leader in our group, not just on the field but off it," Stuart said.
Debut Performance and Future Prospects
Tamale made 12 runs for 98 meters and completed all his tackles in the 28-16 win over the Warriors. His performance earned him a spot in the squad for the following round. The Raiders are hopeful Tamale can build on this start, with the club looking to develop young talent to complement their established stars.
"It's a dream come true," Tamale said. "I want to keep learning from guys like Seb and make the most of every opportunity."
