It's a long way from home, but for Tom Eastham life's a beach. Full filling a lifetime dream the young player left the UK in March to spend the winter season with the Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Club. Since his arrival he has become an integral member of the first XV, and has also played a major role in the clubs social scene. Having spent most his career playing half back he saw an opportunity to develop his game further when he heard the pirates were looking for a 5/8 " I'd played a couple of games at home at 5/8, but in the UK it's a much more difficult proposition. With the muddy fields it is hard to play the running game I enjoy, and kicking can have it's moments as well. But here in Oz it's a total different story. I left Wales and it was 10 degrees with 2 inches of mud on the field, compared to my first game for the Pirates it was 29 degrees and the ground was absolute lush".
Eastham has formed a deadly combination with the likes of Tom Valentine and Luke Coleman, but is also focused on developing the clubs future ranks. On Friday nights he coaches an under tens team, and after regular training sessions he spends time with the clubs lower grade half backs Michael Dietrich and Casey Brown working on their passing game.
Having completed a political science degree at the University of Wales he has cast a keen eye over the local political scene. "Rob Oakeshott looks like he has the place wired, and how couldn't he, Port Macquarie is such a beautiful place, the people are so friendly and the beaches and scenery are just unbelievable. It's obviously an area with massive growth opportunities and having a leader like Rob obviously just adds to it's potential" "and I might add he goes alright on the rugby pitch as well" (Rob still plays for Pirates third grade when available).
Spending his days between working out at Five Star gym, or simply sitting on Flynns Beach (he lives across the road) Tom is ever thank full for the opportunities that lie ahead. "The Pirates are a fabulous club, well organized and very professional in their approach to the 15 man game" " I know that my time here will be beneficial for both of us, and I'm really enjoying helping them get back on track and charging for another premiership".
