By the time Hull FC reached an agreement with John Cartwright to become their new head coach, John Asiata had already signed with the team, and the news only increased his eagerness to start at his new club. The 31-year-old and Cartwright have a long history together, dating back to the 2015 season, when they jointly won the NRL Premiership.

Asiata, who came on as a substitute in Sydney that day, defeated the Brisbane Broncos in extra time and is well acquainted with Hull’s new manager. Cartwright worked under Paul Green after moving to Townsville, and Asiata was impressed by his treatment of the Cowboys’ young players that season.

One of those young players, Asiata was 22 at the time, and Cartwright’s effect can still be seen in today’s loose-forward. The now 31-year-old believes that developing relationships is crucial, and the Australian coach has a talent for learning about and comprehending the requirements of his players.

Asiata told Hull Live, “Carty’s main strength is that he’s always there for you.” “It’s about understanding players and developing relationships with them on an individual basis. I seen those things throughout my time with Carty at the Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos, and they were helpful to the young children.

“He establishes a rapport with his players and collaborates with them to attempt to bring out their greatest qualities. Everyone should be thrilled about Carty’s arrival since he will not only strengthen the team’s mental toughness but also get the most out of the young players. Many young children should be looking forward to that, in my opinion, and I believe many people are probably unaware of it.

“He will motivate them, and if you put in the necessary effort, he will bring out the best in you. With him in command, many exciting days are coming.

“I’ve been a faith person since I signed; I always give everything to God, and I knew that when one door closed, another one would open,” Asiata went on. I was excited because I knew that God would guide me in what I needed to do. Regardless of the coach, I was always anticipating what would happen, but it was the icing on the cake when Carty was named coach.

“I knew that I would be joining a new club with a lot of unfamiliar faces and staff, and that I would be able to connect with a coach I know well. Naturally, I was excited about the prospect. I’m excited to collaborate with him once more and support him in creating a culture of which we can be proud, as well as a team capable of competing against the best and challenging for trophies.”

Not only does Asiata know the coach, but he also knows his old Leigh colleagues, Tom Briscoe, Ed Chamberlain, Oliver Holmes, and Zak Hardaker. It’s important to Asiata, who also knows Herman Ese’ese well, and will only help Hull improve next season as they try to move past a dismal 2024 campaign with seasoned additions Aidan Sezer and Jordan Rapana.

“The good thing about the players we’ve signed, especially the ones that I’ve played with over the last couple of years, is the familiarity with everyone,” Asiata said. “I know how to approach them and what they need. Understanding what works for different players and fostering relationships as people rather than just as a squad are something I firmly believe in. Many players respond in different ways, but having those people on the team and their contributions will help us all perform to the best of our abilities.