Bodene Thompson /

Fun Facts 

Full Name: Bodene Thompson

Nickname: Bo

Date of Birth: 1/08/1988

NRL Debut: Titans vs Knights Round 9 2009

Clubs: Gold Coast Titans, Wests Tigers and Warriors

Position/s: Second Row, Centre

Height: 185cm

Representative Honours: 2014 New Zealand tour/Four Nations

Career Highlight: Four Nations Championship

Fast Facts

Favourite book: Surrounded by Idiots

Favourite colour: Green

Favourite holiday destination: Bali

Least favourite food: Silverbeet

If I could be an animal I would be: Tiger

Famous person I would like to meet: Tiger Woods

Biography

Bodene was born in Tauranga New Zealand. He grew up with his dad and sister until he was 14 years old. Then he moved to live with his mum, step-dad and two brothers. His childhood was challenging, but sport was a positive focus.

As a child, Bodene was very shy but full of aggression and passion. Sport was a great way to make friends and served as an outlet in a fun, positive way. Bodene started playing touch footy and then started playing Rugby League at 16 years of age.

Throughout his childhood, Bodene and his family supported the New Zealand Warriors. They loved watching and following Rugby League. Therefore when Bodene’s coach told him he would be making his NRL debut, his family was extremely excited. Bodene still vividly remembers the real buzz of happiness in his family at the time.

As well as his NRL debut, his family have shared in other highlights such as playing for the New Zealand Maori team in 2010. Playing Rugby League allowed Bodene to travel, this is something Bodene treasured.

Now, Bodene lives with his partner and five children. He continues to exercise,  training three to five times per week while working full-time as a safety advisor in the building industry.

Bodene loves being an ambassador for the NRL. He enjoys giving back to the game that gave him so many opportunities. Working with youth is an important aspect of the role, Bodene is passionate about helping troubled youth flourish, through Rugby League.