It may only be a handful of games but it’s quite clear that entertaining Panthers winger Brian To’o is in career-best form, and he’s got one very special person thank for it.
While the Panthers’ coaching staff have put countless hours of work into To’o during his young career, it’s surprisingly the 22-year-old’s loving partner, Moesha, that’s really made an impact on his game.
To’o is currently leading the NRL in run metres (663) and post contact metres (271), and he is currently second in the competition for tackle breaks (22) and all runs (68).
Speaking with Extra Time, the Samoan international and attacking machine said Moesha deserves some credit for helping him become a better player this season.
“I always speak to my missus about how I can improve my game. She’s my biggest fan and she’s always making sure I’m doing the little things right,” To’o revealed.
“This year she wanted me to take my game to a new level, and I think that’s what is really pushing me to become better than last year.”
To’o and his partner are true ‘couple goals’, with the pair very popular on the TikTok app for their outrageously fun videos. The proud Mt Druitt resident said Moesha loves her rugby league, almost as much as he does.
“Sometimes we’ll have little dates and the first thing she says is ‘can we please watch a replay of your game?’,” To’o said.
“It’s something she always does; she always wants to watch a replay and will tip me off on the little things that I can work on. It’s like having my own personal coach at home, I’m really grateful for her.”
And with the NRL moving to Stage 2 COVID protocols this week due to the precarious situation up north, the happy couple will have even more time to spend with one another reviewing To’o’s game footage.
The St Marys junior said he has his mask “handy” for the next few weeks ahead, but admits he isn’t the biggest fan of going back into a mini ‘bubble’.
“It’s kind of a buzzkill but it is what it is just to make sure the game is still rolling,” To’o said.
“I’ve got four masks at home, so I’m already locked and loaded.”
Nathan Taylor
Nathan Taylor is the Weekender's Deputy Editor and Senior Sports Writer. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked at the Weekender for a decade.