Sydney Roosters halfback Daly Cherry-Evans has drawn inspiration from seven-time NFL Super Bowl champion Tom Brady as he aims to lead his team to success in the upcoming NRL finals. Cherry-Evans, a long-time admirer of American football, finds motivation in Brady’s career longevity and leadership as he prepares for a qualifying final against Penrith this Sunday.
The match comes at a time when Cherry-Evans has missed a rare opportunity to attend an NFL game in Melbourne, where the San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams in front of a sold-out crowd of 100,000 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Despite his absence, Cherry-Evans remains engaged as an avid follower of the 49ers, a team he first supported through a connection with his father-in-law, Colin Rockliff, who gifted him a jersey bearing the name of legendary 49ers running back Frank Gore.
Cherry-Evans, who played 15 seasons with Manly before joining the Roosters, says Brady’s example of relentless determination and professionalism has influenced his own approach to sport. “Being a quarterback, he was the director and leader in the big moments,” Cherry-Evans said. He highlighted Brady’s hunger for continual improvement and his refusal to become complacent despite years of success. “He was never satisfied with success and was always chasing that next win or Super Bowl,” Cherry-Evans added.
Brady’s career, spanning 23 seasons with New England and Tampa Bay, is notable for his sustained excellence and his ability to perform at the highest level well into his 40s. Cherry-Evans respects this perseverance, drawing parallels with the sacrifices required to maintain peak performance in professional sport. “I understand the cost success comes with—working on your body, time away from friends and family,” he said.
While Cherry-Evans acknowledges the challenges ahead, he expresses confidence in his potential to emulate aspects of Brady’s career. “We will find out in four weeks whether I will be able to replicate what he did,” he said.
Away from the field, Cherry-Evans actively follows the NFL each week and participates in fantasy football leagues with friends, creating an additional personal connection to the sport. “It’s not about the winning, although I am highly competitive and love winning. It is also a great connection piece and having something to talk about,” he said. Cherry-Evans’ enthusiasm for the NFL underscores his passion for sport beyond rugby league, offering insight into the broader influences that shape his competitive mindset.