Aussie rugby league player Loghan Lewis is back in the game and feeling the passion once more. After a tumultuous 12 years that saw the rise and fall of a legendary club, Bradford Bulls, Lewis is ready to write a new chapter in his career.
The four-time Super League champions and three-time world champions faced an uncertain future, folding and then reforming, working their way back up from the lowest ranks. It was a challenging journey, and one that Lewis, an Australian prop, found himself caught up in.
"It was a nightmare," Lewis confesses. "Knowing the club's financial struggles and the uncertainty around our future, it was tough to stay motivated every day. We started as a tight-knit group, but as players left and the situation worsened, it became harder to stay positive."
And for Lewis, being away from home in Australia, with no support network nearby, made the situation even more difficult. "Not knowing what the future held, especially towards the end of the season, was a real challenge. We had to prepare for games every week, but I just focused on my teammates and giving my all on the field."
But now, with Bradford's return to the Super League, Lewis is feeling rejuvenated. "Coming to Bradford has been a breath of fresh air. You can see the club's rich history, especially from the early 2000s, painted all around the training grounds and the stadium. It's a club that's ready for the big time again."
Lewis is joined by familiar faces at Bradford, including coach Kurt Haggerty and teammates Ethan Ryan, Joe Mellor, and others who made the move from Salford. Life back in the Super League begins with a match against Hull FC, and Lewis is determined to make an impression, especially on one very special fan.
"My dad made the journey from Australia to watch me last year, but I only lasted 30 seconds before getting knocked out in my first challenge! He tried to play it cool, but I know he was disappointed. I'm determined to give him a better show this time around."
Lewis praises his new coach, Kurt Haggerty, for his detailed and personalized approach. "He leaves no room for ambiguity. You always know exactly what he wants, and he ensures you understand it too."
And with that clarity and a fresh start, Loghan Lewis is ready to take on the Super League once more.
