The 26-year-old, from Fiji, has previously played Australian Rules for Culcairn and also had a conversation with Albury Thunder about switching to rugby league but opted for a second season with the Steamers after making his SIRU debut last year.

"It is the best," he said. "There is a thing with this team I've never seen.

"I've played for different teams, at different levels, but playing for Steamers and the culture here, people are so friendly and they care.

"When I bring my family here, they're very supportive and that's what I love about Steamers.

"It's almost seven years now I've been in Australia and sometimes I miss my family back at home, Mum and my brothers, but having family here - my wife and kids - they mean a lot to me.

"I feel like staying here, it's a second home for me."

Baleidrokadroka played soccer as a youngster but since taking up rugby union as a 14-year-old, he hasn't looked back.

"I got a chance to travel to New Zealand to play under-14 for Fiji sevens but I broke my ankle a week before," he said.

"When the doctor said it was a bad result and I couldn't play any sports, I was sad. I couldn't take it. I was very disappointed that night and it was so hard to take it in.

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"I was nearly there. When I got chosen in the team, I was so happy. Where I come from, it's pretty hard to get players to go overseas but I got chosen and it was a big thing to me.

"I tried so hard to get back to that level. It took me ages because of my injury.

"When you play rugby in Fiji, especially when you play for your village team, that's a big thing for you.

"I realised that rugby could take me somewhere. When I got a chance to go overseas, I gave my best because I know back at home, it's so hard. I just want to support my family."

A knee injury means Baleidrokadroka is likely to sit out today's home game against Reddies, with the Steamers chasing their first win since early May.

"Our teamwork has been good but when we're in the field we need a lot more chat and to trust each other," he said.

"It's been a bit up and down so far but we're getting there."

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