25 August 2024
Thomas Burgess, a powerhouse on the rugby field and a dedicated family man at home
Thomas Burgess, known for his pivotal role in the South Sydney Rabbitohs’ 2014 grand final victory that ended a 43-year premiership drought, is embarking on an exciting new chapter with his family. Standing at 196 cm and weighing 120 kilograms, Burgess has been a formidable presence on the field, amassing over 225 appearances for the Rabbitohs. However, his journey isn’t ending in Sydney; he’s preparing for a big move to join the Huddersfield Giants in the Super League on a three-year contract, with plans to return to Australia after his time in the UK.
Thomas’s career in rugby league has been marked by both personal and professional milestones. A beloved figure at the Rabbitohs, he has achieved much on the field, but his greatest joy comes from his life off the field with his growing family. Recently, Thomas and his wife Tahlia welcomed their third child, a baby boy named Alfie. Reflecting on this new addition, Thomas shared, “It’s incredible! Tahlia and I are absolutely thrilled. We weren’t certain if we wanted another child, but I’m so glad we decided to go for a third. Having a boy was a complete surprise—I was in the delivery room, and the obstetrician told me to get ready to catch the baby. We chose the name Alfie because it works perfectly with our girls’ names. I’ve always loved the name Alfie, and who knows, he might go by AB one day! The name just felt right for both of us.”
The arrival of baby Alfie marks a significant moment for Thomas and Tahlia as they prepare for their move to the UK. This relocation presents a unique opportunity for the Burgess family to explore new experiences and reconnect with Tahlia’s roots. Thomas expressed his excitement about the move, saying, “I’m really looking forward to all the adventures we’ll have as a family as the kids grow up. We’ll get to travel, reconnect with family and friends, and the girls will have the chance to explore their roots, especially since Tahlia’s mum is English. But we will miss the Rabbitohs family.”
Despite the move and the changes ahead, Thomas remains deeply committed to his role as a father. He relishes the daily routines and activities he shares with his two daughters, who are always on the move. “The girls are always on the move—they love being active, and I enjoy being a part of that energy. We spend a lot of time outdoors, and they really thrive in their activities like ballet, dancing, and gymnastics. Sofia, in particular, has a real talent for gymnastics. When we head back to the UK, I’m excited to see the kids try out some team sports, and I’d love to be involved in helping them with that.”
Tahlia, Thomas’s wife, plays a vital role in their family’s dynamic. Thomas is full of praise for her, acknowledging her as the heart of their family. “Tahlia is the heart of our family—she keeps everything running smoothly. She’s amazing, strong, and independent. Plus, she’s a fantastic model and is excited about heading back to the UK for work. When Alfie was born, she turned to me and said, ‘I’ve done my job, now go do yours,’ which is when I headed off to my footy game. Her support and strength mean everything to me.”
As he prepares for his move to Huddersfield, Thomas is filled with anticipation for the future. His career continues to flourish, and his family’s support remains a cornerstone of his success. Looking ahead, Thomas is excited about the opportunities that await his children in the UK. He’s particularly eager to see them explore team sports, as he believes it will be a great way for them to make friends and stay active.
Throughout all these changes, Thomas’s greatest strength lies in his patience and dedication as a father. Tahlia often remarks on his ability to be a fantastic dad, even after long days filled with intense training and games. “Thomas’s greatest strength is his patience. He has this incredible knack for being a fantastic dad around the clock, even when he’s exhausted from a game,” she says, highlighting the balance he maintains between his professional and personal life.
As Thomas and his family embark on this new adventure, they do so with a strong sense of togetherness and optimism for what lies ahead. Whether on the field or off, Thomas Burgess continues to exemplify the values of dedication, resilience, and love, both as a rugby league star and as a devoted family man.