Dad’s 5:30am Appeal to Star Son During Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii’s Farm Retreat

Angus Bell isn’t one to shy away from hard work.

To make it as one of the top props in the world is no small feat, and the Wallabies and Waratahs star has turned his off-season into a routine of getting into shape at his family’s farm in Bungendore.

However, Bell found himself upstaged by urbanite Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii when he welcomed him to the countryside.

After a restful night following a nearly three-hour drive from Sydney, Bell was looking forward to a relaxed morning coffee with some pals from the Brumbies in Canberra.

“Then my dad (former Wallabies hooker Mark Bell) woke me up and said, ‘Mate, why aren’t you doing anything to improve or stretch? Why don’t you do something like Joey?’” Bell recounted to Stan Sport’s Michael Atkinson.

“I replied, ‘What do you mean? It’s 6:30 in the morning, that’s early! I’m up, aren’t I?'”

“Meanwhile, Joey Suaalii was on my porch at 5:30 in the morning, stretching and rolling out, embracing nature without a phone, as he claimed.”

Bell and Suaalii have shared a strong friendship since their school days and were roommates during the Spring Tour.

In November, Bell faced off against critics who suggested that Suaalii’s speedy rise to Test selection had lessened the prestige of the gold jersey.

“As soon as he steps onto the field, you’ll witness just how ‘cheap’ the jersey is,” Bell cautioned.

He was indeed spot on, as the high-profile NRL recruit was awarded man of the match in an impressive rugby debut against England.

“I’ve never encountered a 21-year-old with such professionalism; he’s probably the most dedicated person I’ve ever met,” Bell commented in anticipation of NSW’s Super Rugby season opener at Allianz Stadium on February 14.

“He’s an extraordinary athlete, and what stands out about Joey is his character and professionalism at such a young age. There’s a reason he appeared for Origin at 21 and has represented Samoa at the (rugby league) World Cup, where he was one of the standout players…

“He’s also a genuinely kind-hearted person, making him one of the best individuals I’ve met, as well as the most professional.

“I can’t stand blokes like that,” Bell added with a chuckle.

Curiosity surrounds where Suaalii will play against the Highlanders in the opening round.

He had been slated to start at fullback in Saturday’s trial against the Brumbies in Bowral but chose to rest due to a minor knee concern.

Nonetheless, new Waratahs coach Dan McKellar is aware he possesses a rare talent.

“Joseph’s most remarkable trait is his work ethic and professionalism,” McKellar stated to Stan Sport.

“Just observing him train closely, he competes fiercely in every session. He’s always the first player on the field and the last one to leave. If he maintains that commitment and drive, he will soon get the hang of the game.

“Once he gains that confidence and belief in himself, what he can achieve with his natural talent is truly impressive.”

Wallabies speedster Max Jorgensen, who is vying for the No. 15 jersey with Suaalii, is thrilled to witness his development.

“As we saw during the Spring Tour, he’s an incredible athlete,” Jorgensen shared with Stan Sport.

“His ability to leap and contest those high balls is extraordinary, and he’s grasped the game faster than I anticipated. He’s an astute player, and he’s definitely starting to find his rhythm in rugby union. Expect a huge impact from him this year.”