Keaon Koloamatangi has compelled Uber Eats delivery drivers in Sydney’s southwest to accept reduced wages – however, their grievance should be directed at South Sydney’s head coach, Wayne Bennett.
The forward shed approximately 10kg before the 2025 season and currently weighs in at 107 to 108kg, making him as light as when he played centre for the Rabbitohs' SG Ball team.
Koloamatangi, primarily a middle at the close of 2024, attributed her weight loss to an inspiring conversation with the reinstated coach, Bennett.
"He mentioned that he felt quite heavy last year according to his own criteria, and during our conversation over the offseason, Wayne inquired about what I believed would be the most suitable role for me," he explained.
I thought that sitting in the second row was my optimal spot.
The former NSW player exited the discussion with the aim of shedding pounds to compete effectively against the top-tier edge forwards in the league.
Liam Martin (who weighs 103kg), Briton Nikora (weighing 94kg), Dylan Lucas (at 96kg), and Angus Crichton (with his 102kg frame) are all notably slimmer compared to Koloamatangi’s playing weight of 118kg for the midweight division back in 2024.
"If you consider all the finest players (those who play in the second row), I believe I belong among their ranks. However, without adequate fitness, excelling to the top three or top two positions in that role will be unattainable," he stated.
The initial casualty was dessert – Koloamatangi's weak spot.
Koloamatangi acknowledges that delivery drivers close to his residence in the Canterbury-Bankstown area might be noticing a reduction in their wallet weight due to his healthier lifestyle choices.
“I wasn’t very good with desserts, so I basically eliminated them and tried to see how long I could last without,” he explained.
I would eat whatever was in the cupboard, but mostly I'd order Uber Eats açaí since I'm based in the Canterbury-Bankstown region where açaí is quite popular.
I had to cancel that order, so Uber Eats might have lost some revenue as a result.
Within just a few months, Koloamatangi started noticing improvements.
"He mentioned that he slimmed down rapidly. He didn’t find the change in his eating habits to be extremely significant," he explained.
The 26-year-old will take the field for his second match this season when he faces St George Illawarra on Saturday following Souths' narrow one-point win over the Dolphins in their previous encounter.
He's still adjusting to his more streamlined build.
"It feels somewhat unusual being lighter since I occasionally sense that I have less power, but I’ve been performing well at the gym. So now, I’m simply aiming to become more comfortable with my new physique," he explained.
I've improved significantly in terms of self-confidence. My aim was to push my limits beyond what I do on the field. Even though I haven’t mastered it yet, I’m content.
