Valynce Te Whare deserves a chance at NRL redemption, says former State of Origin Ben Te’o, if the Dolphins cult hero fights for his future with championship glory on the line.
The man nicknamed ‘Val Meninga’ – thanks to comparisons with home state legend Mal Meninga – will be out to prove he still has life at the top in the Redcliffe Queensland Cup final against the Norths Devils on Sunday.
The 24-year-old failed to add to his 12 NRL appearances in 2024 after being sent to an individual fitness camp under renowned strength and conditioning coach Mark “Chopper” Burgess. Although he was blessed with raw attacking ability after being recruited by the New Zealand rugby union, Te Whare’s failure to adhere to the NRL’s fitness standards ended his career at a crossroads.
The 108kg ball has been damaging for Redcliffe – highlighted by his golden point exploits in a preliminary final win over Northern Pride – and although he is not signed beyond 2024, Redcliffe coach Te ‘o believe his skills are of NRL calibre.
However, the Queensland Maroons great said Te Whare’s second chance would depend on his off-field habits.