A single moment can have a game-changing snowball effect in sporting clubs. Four weeks ago, an underrated gesture has put the Rabbitohs on that course.
After spending three months on the sideline with a serious hamstring injury, Latrell Mitchell has been at his scintillating best for a Rabbitohs outfit that’s now put together four straight wins.
His attacking influence has been undeniable and the 11 try involvements is a data point hard to ignore. But if one dares to dig a little deeper, they could argue his greatest gift to the Bunnies this season might not be an on-field feat at all.
In a post-match interview following his successful return against the Eels, he announced that he would suit up for the Rabbitohs in Round 17 and forgo possible New South Wales selection for the State of Origin decider.
Embed from Getty ImagesHis decision was immediately picked apart by the thirsty crisis merchants who were desperate for a fresh takedown, when the real story at hand was that Latrell had selflessly signalled his unequivocal devotion to the South Sydney cause and was willing to risk the progression of his own representative career as a result. Not to mention the financial gain that comes with Origin football.
When someone of Latrell Mitchell’s stature chooses the team over self, it creates an ethos that trickles throughout the playing group. If that person is also a rampaging colossus who will just as happily steamroll an opposition player as deceive them with a deft touch of football artistry, everybody buys in.
Latrell Mitchell ???? #NRLBulldogsSouths
— Mana Rugby (@mana_rugby) July 17, 2022
pic.twitter.com/XbY6F6IgeM
Some are suggesting Mitchell owed it to the club that invested heavily in his rehab, which even included a trip to the US. But his in-game commitment has been an expression of the passionate and maturing Rabbitohs leader he’s become.
His full ground effort and influence have transformed the Bunnies, from a side who conceded 32 points in one half against the Dragons just one month ago to one of the form teams of the competition. The group is playing with an admirable level of enjoyment and freedom.
Their run home is difficult with five match-ups against top-eight teams, including the entire top-three. But the ease in which they disposed of both the Eels and Storm in recent weeks suggest it might not be as onerous as it looks on paper.
Earn the right ????
— South Sydney Rabbitohs ???? (@SSFCRABBITOHS) July 11, 2022
Watch Latrell Mitchell Pushing Boundaries Ep.1 ????https://t.co/844V1UlN3K#GoRabbitohs ❤️???? pic.twitter.com/F0VA6WUdrT
If Latrell and their nucleus of star players remain fit, it could perhaps be the perfect lead-up to the finals as they look to generate momentum for another Grand Final tilt – a reality which seemed improbable until Latrell took responsibility.
And let’s set this straight – he did not turn his back on New South Wales, he chose South Sydney. He prioritised the 115 year old emblem on his chest, the footy club he calls home, the mates he calls family, and the supporters who live and breathe the cardinal and myrtle.
His decision should be lauded, not derided, he is the spiritual leader of this South Sydney side whose actions and presence elevates and inspires those around him. If only every club could be so lucky.
