Cowboys big man has GIANT shoes to fill

At 192cm and 115kg, North Queensland Toyota Cowboys Forward Thomas Mikaele is an imposing figure, but he’s got GIANT shoes to fill subbing in for retired Jake Granville as Townsville Community Learning Centre’s ‘adopted’ Cowboy.

The 27-year-old asked Granville to ‘put in a good word for him’ at the State Special School when Jake retired from his on and off-field duties late last year, including his role at the school which caters for students with intellectual disabilities from Prep through to Year 12.

Mikaele has now completed two official visits to TCLC as part of the Cowboys Adopt-a-School Program, presented by Bravus Mining & Resources.

“I really wanted to come to TCLC because I have a son who has level three autism so I feel like I can sort of relate to a lot of the parents of these children and just how the children interact with people,” Mikaele said.

“When the opportunity came up, I took it with both hands, and I wouldn’t say I’m doing as good a job as Jake did but I’m getting there.

“This visit I spoke to the senior students about the Cowboys Way, which is giving 110%, supporting your teammates and being grateful for what you have. They are bright kids, they take in all the information very well, and they know the Cowboys Way that’s for sure.”

Senior student Griffin Anderson is a huge Cowboys fans and goes to most home games with his dad. He said Mikaele is putting in a great performance off the interchange.  

“I was here when Jake was here so yes, he was very big shoes to fill but I think Tom has the energy and the potential to fill those shoes, he’s just a cool, relaxed, kind, loving Cowboy,” Griffin said.

“I’ve got a jersey on, and I go to every home game, and I really enjoy it with my dad, it’s a good atmosphere.

“The Cowboys Way is basically to never give up, always try your best and be kind.”

TCLC Deputy Principal Steve Leese said the program was brilliant for the entire school community and meant a lot for the students to feel included.

“Hearing that Tom requested to come here and why was huge for us, it shows the man’s got a heart as big as Phar Lap and the kids and the community here have adopted him as much as he’s adopted us,” Steve said.

“Listening to Tom, Jake and previous adopted Cowboys talking about the Cowboys Way is really motivating for our students, it means so much to them and they learn something from every visit.”