I have the opportunity to play rugby professionally, and there’s nothing I would exchange it for.
Kian McDermott is quickly becoming a name to watch in the world of rugby
league, and for good reason. At just 21 years old, the Wigan Warriors prop
forward is already making waves in the Super League, and he’s not just living
out his dream—he’s relishing every moment of it. Known for his formidable
presence on the field, McDermott has all the tools to become one of the top
forwards in the league, but it’s his passion for the game that truly sets him
apart.
Growing up in Wigan, McDermott was no stranger to rugby league. The sport
runs deep in the town, with the Warriors being one of the most storied clubs in
the competition. From a young age, Kian was drawn to the game and knew he
wanted to follow in the footsteps of the legends who played for his hometown
team. Fast forward to today, and the 6ft 4in, 17-stone prop is making his mark
at the highest level, a position many would only dream of.
For McDermott, every day is an opportunity to live out what he considers the
“best job in the world.” “I don’t think it’s fully hit me yet,” Kian said of his rise
through the ranks. “I’ve always wanted to play for Wigan, and now I’m here.
It’s just incredible. Being able to play professional rugby league, especially for
the club I’ve supported all my life, is surreal.”
McDermott’s journey to professional rugby has not been an easy one, but his
determination and love for the game have always kept him on course. Having
come through Wigan’s youth system, Kian worked tirelessly to earn his spot in
the first team. His early days were filled with challenges and learning
experiences that shaped him into the player he is today. “It was tough, but
that’s part of the process. You have to work hard and prove yourself,” he said.
“The coaches were always pushing me to get better, and I think that’s why I’ve
come on as a player.”
As a prop forward, McDermott’s role is essential to the Warriors’ forward
pack. His job is to drive the ball forward, make crucial tackles, and provide the
platform for the more attacking players to shine. He’s also known for his
tough, no-nonsense style of play, which has earned him the respect of both
teammates and opponents. His physicality, combined with his work ethic,
makes him a valuable asset in the engine room of the team.
One of the standout features of McDermott’s game is his relentless drive to
improve. While he’s already established himself as a key player for Wigan, he’s
not one to rest on his laurels. “I’m still learning every day,” he admits. “There’s
always something new to work on, whether it’s my fitness, my tackling
technique, or my ball handling. I’ve got a lot to improve, and I’m always
pushing myself to get better.”
Kian is also grateful for the guidance he’s received from his more experienced
teammates, many of whom have been through the highs and lows of top-tier
rugby league. “The senior players at Wigan are great mentors,” he says.
“They’ve been in this position for a long time, and they know what it takes to
succeed. I try to learn from them as much as I can, both on and off the field.”
Living in Wigan also brings its own unique set of challenges and rewards. The
town is passionate about its rugby, and the Warriors’ loyal fanbase provides
both immense support and high expectations. McDermott thrives in this
environment, knowing that his performances directly contribute to the pride
of his hometown. “It’s an amazing feeling when you hear the crowd chanting
your name,” he said. “The fans are so dedicated, and it means everything to
represent them and the club. I want to give them my best every time I step
onto the field.”
Looking to the future, McDermott is determined to make the most of his
opportunity with Wigan. He is fully aware that the road ahead will be tough,
but his work ethic, resilience, and passion for the game make him a player
with great potential. “I’ve got big goals for myself,” he said. “I want to keep
getting better, help Wigan win titles, and, one day, represent my country at the
international level. There’s so much more to achieve, and I’m not stopping
here.”
For now, McDermott is enjoying every second of his journey, savoring the
privilege of doing what he loves for a living. “It’s the best job in the world,” he
says with a grin. “I get to play rugby for a living, and I wouldn’t trade it for
anything.”
