Jesse Sene-Lefao: Playing for McDermott is like going back to school

Jesse Sene-Lefao admits he’s learning so much under Featherstone boss Brian McDermott that it’s like being back at school and he’s having to write down notes to take home.

The former Castleford forward is enjoying a new lease of life down the road at Rovers having recently returned from injury for McDermott’s Championship leaders.

The 32-year-old came up short with the Tigers against McDermott’s Leeds in the 2017 Super League Grand Final, a season which Cas had dominated before falling short to the Rhinos at the final hurdle.

Seen-Lefao believes that experience will serve him and Featherstone well this season, with McDermott at the helm of a side dominating the regular season. But they know they must perform in the knockout games to realise their Super League dream.

“It’s a fresh start for me having been under the same coach for the five years that I’ve been here,” he says of his move from Castleford to Featherstone.

“To see a different gameplan and strategy I feel like I’m coming to school every day and learning something new. I have to write it down as it’s so new to us. 

“I’m learning about mindset, unity, believing in the same thing; and how to step up and show your leadership qualities at what is a crucial time for this club.”

Sene-Lefao says playing rugby league in the UK has been a dream for him. He is desperate to write another chapter by guiding Rovers to Super League.

He said: “I always wanted to come to the UK. I never thought it would happen and when it did it was a dream come true to play professional rugby on the other side of the world and provide for my family. 

“It’s not just the fans but for everyone at the club. I have my own personal drives. I have sons who look up to me and I like to teach them