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If you walk past Caleb Timu, you wouldn’t think this quiet, unassuming and gentle family man has just been chosen to join the 32-man Wallabies squad. The father of two has always been interested in rugby, however, did not expect to be chosen to play for Australia after only 12 matches with the Queensland Reds, not even a full season.
Being a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Caleb faced a decision in 2012 to walk away from his meteoric career to serve a mission for the Church. On one hand, he was playing for the Brisbane Broncos under-20s side and was selected to play in the under-20s Maroons squad for State of Origin in the same year, but nothing was more important to him than his faith. He said, "It was the hardest decision up until then that I had ever had to make."
After talking with fellow LDS Rugby star and friend Will Hopoate, who faced the same decision, Caleb decided to serve the Lord and walked away from a promising rugby career.
For two years, Caleb put aside his career and served a mission in Auckland & Raratonga, New Zealand. "Fully committing myself to missionary work and following the missionary schedule helped me unplug from the world, draw closer to God and serve the people around me. Working on the mission also made me a much better communicator because you talk to people on the streets and on their doorsteps every day."
On returning home he was once again signed to the Broncos, however he was feeling uncomfortable with it as many of the games were on Sunday, a day that is very special to Christians worldwide. It was at this time that Caleb received a call from the Queensland Reds, ultimately resulting in him switching codes from Rugby League to Rugby Union.
"I’ve been really enjoying my time with the Queensland Reds and the experience of playing Super Rugby this season. I also owe a lot to my wife Pam, who has been a rock for me and my two boys, Kalisi and Etuate. I’ve found balance in my life. I don’t think I would’ve been able to achieve that without the Lord and those two years on the mission. And as for the football, I believe that the experience of letting it go has taught me to appreciate it more."
Caleb looks forward to continuing to serve as an example to the community as he steps out in his green and gold uniform for the Wallabies, always taking time for the most important things in his life, his family and his faith.
Sources:
https://www.playersvoice.com.au/caleb-timu-my-life-mormon-mission/#REqYQCGBEFXYtGV1.97