Rugby league's administration is full of former players looking to give back in some way, but it's fair to say only few deserve to be there as much as Motu Tony.
Having helped transform one of the UK's powerhouse clubs, he's now looking to do the same as the high performance manager behind the Kiwis.
After an illustrious 11-year career, Tony took on some serious advice from former team manager Sir Peter Lietch in 2012.
"I remember the Mad Butcher saying to me, ‘you're not Stacey Jones,' so I knew that quite early [in my career] I wasn't the most talented player."
An embarrassed Sir Peter admits he doesn’t quite remember dishing out the harsh dose of reality but knows what he meant by saying it.
"I would've only said that to help him because some guys are going to have a big career in football and some aren't."
Remembering the Mad Butcher's advice, the 13-Test Kiwi ended his career in the UK and started a bachelor's degree.
Just months into study, he returned to his former English club Hull as the youngest ever senior sports administrator in the game.
"I was told that I was the only Pacific islander in senior sports administration," Tony said.
"I know it's flattering for me but it’s something I’m keen to sort of change."
The best recruiters make a name taking risks.
Last year, the 37-year-old packed up his family of seven to take a role as interim CEO of Baseball New Zealand before joining the NZRL as their general manager for high performance.
His first task - getting the Kiwis to restore pride against the Kangaroos next month.
"When you have the Junior Kiwis, the Kiwi Ferns and the Kiwis all playing on the one day, one venue, it promotes the Kiwi family feel again.
"That's something we haven't had in our sport for a very long time."
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