Lachlan Galvin, the NRL’s breakout sensation of 2024, is taking an unconventional approach to his off-season preparation—embracing his love for fast food with the blessing of the Wests Tigers. The 19-year-old five-eighth, who admits to knowing McDonald’s drive-thru attendants better than his star teammate Jarome Luai, is focused on bulking up while improving his fitness for the 2025 season.
Despite Luai’s absence due to Samoa’s England tour, Galvin remains optimistic about their future partnership, crediting the premiership-winner’s impending arrival as a key factor in alleviating playmaking pressure. “He’ll run the team, and I’ll just play off the back of that,” Galvin shared.
To combat the infamous second-year syndrome, Galvin has already shaved three seconds off his 1.2km time trial and now clocks in at an impressive 4:12. However, adding size to his 193cm frame remains a challenge. The Tigers’ dietitian has given Galvin a green light to “eat what you want,” a directive he’s taken to heart with regular visits to McDonald’s.
“I get a dinner box from Maccas on the way home. That’s why I love playing,” Galvin quipped, adding that as long as he weighs more each morning, he considers it a win.
Galvin’s laid-back approach to diet and fitness contrasts sharply with the structured regimens of most professional athletes, but the Wests Tigers seem to be embracing his individuality. As the Tigers aim to bounce back from three consecutive wooden spoon finishes, the young playmaker’s growth—both on and off the field—could be pivotal in turning the club’s fortunes around.
The Tigers’ decision to pair Galvin with the seasoned Jarome Luai reflects their commitment to building a dynamic and balanced halves combination. While Luai brings leadership and experience from his premiership wins, Galvin’s raw talent and fearless playing style offer the perfect complement. However, the pressure to perform in his second season remains a looming challenge, one that Galvin is taking seriously.
His focus on fitness is already yielding results, with significant improvements in his endurance and speed. The added weight, though minimal so far, is expected to help him handle the physicality of the NRL better, particularly as opposing teams prepare to target the young star.
As the Tigers gear up for the 2025 season, fans will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Galvin’s progress, both as a player and as a personality. His charm and candidness about his love for fast food have already endeared him to supporters, but his performances on the field will ultimately determine his legacy.
With Luai’s arrival just around the corner and Galvin’s unique approach to preparation, the Tigers could be on the brink of an exciting new chapter. Will this unconventional pre-season strategy pay off, or will Galvin’s love for the golden arches prove too much of a distraction? One thing is certain—Lachlan Galvin’s journey is just getting started.
