His parents couldn't take his Raiders jersey off him as a pre-schooler, but winger Sami Sauiluma had a gut feeling he'd worn a Canberra jersey for the last time when he was dropped after round 20 this season.
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Sauiluma said he had no apprehension joining the Cronulla Sharks on a two-year deal from next year, confident the club could lift itself off the bottom of the NRL after a horrific year of injury and off-field drama.
But the 23-year-old admitted he was heartbroken to be leaving the Raiders, a club he's supported his entire life. Unsure about his future, Sauiluma approached long-time mentor and Raiders recruitment manager David Hamilton after he was dropped following the round 20 loss to the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
"I never really got told, after getting dropped I kind of read between the lines that I wasn't needed here next year," said Sauiluma, who played 15 NRL games for the Raiders over two seasons.
"When I got dropped, I had a feeling that was my last game. I approached Hammo and said 'I think I know what's happening', and he confirmed it.
"Hammo's been there from day one for me, so it was good hearing it from him ... he's played a big part in me getting a start at the Raiders, so it was easier to talk to him."
Sauiluma said he was no longer sour about his exit. He was in negotiations with the Sharks and Dragons, before choosing Cronulla.
"It's a bit disappointing leaving, but that's footy these days. It was awesome to debut at the Raiders, I've followed them my whole life. I used to wear my Raiders jersey to pre-school every day.
"The Sharks have got an unbelievable roster once all their players are back from injury and the off-field drama's finished, I think they'll be able to bounce back to where they were two years ago."
