‘Keep Showing Up’: Phil Gould Responds to Remarkable Debut Announcement as Tigers Unveil Heartfelt Video

Not every rugby league journey is the same, and for Tristan Hope, years of hard work in the lower ranks will finally come to fruition this weekend.

At 27 years old, he has spent a significant amount of time in the reserve grade of the QLD Cup competition, yet it seemed NRL clubs had overlooked him.

That changed when the Wests Tigers extended a pre-season opportunity to him, and after impressing the coaching team during trials, he was awarded a development contract.

This week, head coach Benji Marshall personally informed Hope that he would be making his long-awaited first-grade debut against the Knights.

In an emotional video shared on the club’s social media platforms, Marshall elaborated on how Hope had truly earned this chance through his dedication and hard work.

“You’ve had an exceptional pre-season, and I thought your performance in the trials was fantastic, not for any flashy play,” said the Tigers legend.

“Your hunger is undeniable, you fight fiercely in every situation, and we love your style of play. I’m going to give you this opportunity this week.

“The team wants you onboard, and I believe you’ve truly earned the chance to make your first-grade debut. Your hard work has brought you here.”

“Nothing is for free; this is your reward for the effort you’ve put in.”

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Upon receiving the news, Hope was visibly moved and reflected on his long journey in rugby league, highlighting the obstacles he had to overcome to reach this point.

“I’ve had to take the harder path; I’ve had to grind away because I’m not the quickest, strongest, or most skilled—I’m not someone who stands out,” he admitted.

“That’s what drives me … you don’t need to possess all those attributes if you’re willing to put in the effort. My son is too young to grasp this now, but when he’s older, I hope he’ll see that while you may not have it all, hard work can lead to success.”

Hope will start from the bench for the Tigers in their round one matchup, with Tallyn Da Silva set to begin at hooker due to the absence of captain Api Koroisau.

Phil Gould commented on Hope’s debut news on Wednesday, discussing the work ethic necessary to succeed as a full-time rugby league player.

“Ninety per cent of this game is simply about showing up—both on and off the field,” he stated on Wide World of Sports’ Six Tackles With Gus.

“If you’re on the field, always be ready to get involved, and off the field, keep attending training and persevere. Your day will come.”