A second chance at a dream: Pat Herbert's remarkable journey back to the NRL.
Pat Herbert's story is one of resilience and a deep-rooted love for the game. After three long years away from the NRL, perched atop an excavator, his dreams came knocking once more.
Herbert had experienced a range of challenges since his last NRL game. A planned move to the Super League fell through, leaving him stranded and searching for a new path. He took on various jobs, from landscaping to operating heavy machinery, working hard each day, away from the bright lights of professional rugby.
But here's where it gets controversial... Herbert received a call from the Wests Tigers, offering him a chance to rekindle his career. A second chance, a rare opportunity that many former players only dream of.
"I was on the excavator when the Tigers called, and here I am," Herbert shared.
To be given a second shot after such a long break due to unforeseen circumstances is overwhelming, to say the least.
"That time away allowed me to grow as a person, away from being just a footy player. It's only now that I realize the opportunities we had at our fingertips. I tell the young boys to grab those chances when they can."
Herbert's journey has been a rollercoaster. After recovering from knee surgery and being released by the Titans, he suffered a devastating Achilles injury just weeks before his planned move to Europe. The Super League deal collapsed, and it seemed his professional football career was over.
"I found myself with nothing on the table, and that became my new normal. Sometimes life deals you a bad hand, and you just have to play it."
So, Herbert and his family moved back to Wollongong, where he had once captained the St George Illawarra Under 20s team. He worked various jobs, raised his three sons, and started to move on from his football life. But as time passed, he realized his old times were fading, and his boys were growing up without the full picture of their dad's career.
"They always knew me as a footy player, but as time went on, that image started to fade. They'd see my old teammates on TV and call them uncles. The optimism faded along with it as the days since my last match stretched on."
When the call came, Herbert didn't hesitate. He knew this was his chance to make a difference and show his gratitude.
"It put my foot back in the door, and I felt I had so much to offer. I wanted to prove myself. Whatever happens, I'll show up and give it my all."
Even now, Herbert is unsure why the Tigers chose him. Maybe it was his performance in the Tukana Tournament back in New Zealand, or his time as a teammate with coach Benji Marshall for the Maori All Stars. Or perhaps it was his reputation as a strong, hard-working player, known as "Mr. Uppers" during his time with the Warriors.
"I'm just grateful for the opportunity. I've found my passion and love for the game again. The physical demands of pre-season are tough, but the time away gave me a new perspective. It's more fulfilling now."
Herbert's journey has been a long one, from the rugby league wilderness to the Tigers and now, through a demanding pre-season. He's made it past the first major cut-off, and the Tigers' first pre-season match is on the horizon.
"I'm not thinking too far ahead. I just want to make the most of every day. I love the camaraderie of the playing group, the loyalty to Marshall, and the sense of belonging I feel."
And when Herbert does return to his life away from football, he knows he gave it his all.
"On my first day, I had a moment to myself and asked, 'What am I doing here?' It was a moment of gratitude and realization. Getting one shot at this dream is hard enough. I want to repay the faith the Tigers have shown in me."
Herbert's story is a reminder that dreams can come true, even when they seem out of reach. It's a tale of perseverance and the power of second chances.
