Sam Burgess faces unique challenge coaching against younger brother Tom in Super League
Sam Burgess is preparing to coach against his younger brother Tom in the UK Super League. This unique matchup highlights their family's football legacy and competition in the sport.
Sam Burgess has overcome plenty of challenges on the footy field, but he now faces a unique situation as he prepares to coach against his younger brother in the opening week of the UK Super League season.
Tom Burgess expressed his excitement to test himself at Huddersfield after leaving the NRL and Souths, deliberately avoiding being coached by his "bossy" sibling.
Sam played a crucial role at the Rabbitohs, assisting Tom and his twin George with their move to Australia, but when the battle of the Burgess brothers kicks off in the Super League, sentiment will take a back seat.
This season marks Sam's second year at the helm of Warrington, while it is Tom's first season back in the UK after a successful 12 years in the NRL, where he participated in numerous major matches with his brothers, including Souths' grand final triumph in 2014.
"My older brother over there is a bit bossy," Tom shared with Sky Sports when discussing a potential reunion at the Wolves. "I decided to keep that bit separate."
This encounter will be the first time the brothers face each other, scheduled for February 17 at 2am (AEST).
After this match, Warrington will travel to Las Vegas for a game against Wigan, but Sam is primarily focused on claiming victory over his younger brother.
"On a personal note, both our families are going to be there," he mentioned. "Thomas hasn't quite organised it yet, but we're supposed to get some corporate boxes at Huddersfield."
"It'll be a nice day there either way, and we're looking forward to the season starting all over again."
He added, "I like to say he's older because I'm much smaller than him. He brings significant experience having played 250 games in the NRL and already 50 Super League games ahead of Huddersfield, plus 35 Test matches."
"There aren't too many players with that resume - it certainly surpasses me and George - so he adds considerable experience and a calm presence to the group."
"It's a shame we couldn't get him, but that's the way it goes. We can deal with that."
