NRL player Talatau Junior Amone has earned himself a nomination for The Frownlow Medal after an audacious audition for The Block.
The Frownlow Medal is awarded to the player whose off-field demeanour epitomises the values of the modern-day footballer and draws attention to the status of footballers as role models to young Australians. It covers Australia’s four major football codes; the National Rugby League (NRL), Australian Football League (AFL), the A-League (Football) and Rugby Union’s Super Rugby competition. NRL player Shaun Kenny-Dowall won the inaugural medal in 2015, while NRL star Jarryd Hayne is the most recent recipient.
Amone allegedly assaulted a tradesman with a hammer on the roof of a Wollongong home last month. He has been granted bail.
Reports indicate that the Dragons playmaker chased a tradesman across a two-storey rooftop armed with a hammer before the man fell, suffering serious injuries. The young half was charged with one count each of reckless grievous bodily harm in company, damaging property and intimidation. He must report to the police three times a week and remain at home unless playing with the Dragons
The Tonga international appeared in court this morning via video link from Silverwater prison after he was arrested in November over the alleged assault.
Producers of The Block are said to be impressed with Amone’s audition. They know the long-running show must continue to introduce more and more controversy in order to maintain ratings. A battle between a contestant and a tradie with a hammer might be just what the show needs.
Fallen footballer to reality TV contestant is also a well-trodden path.
Scott Cam is known to be a big fan of the NRL, and although he supports the Roosters, it is believed he would love to share the spotlight with a star of the game. Also, Amone might be looking for a new source of income after this alleged indiscretion.
The cast for the next season of The Block has not been decided, and neither has the winner of The Fronwlow Medal for 2022. Is Amone about to receive a great Christmas present?
Image: NuNa
The Frownlow Medal 