Having secured a one-year Working and Holiday visa, Pudis spent time working in Sydney, to save money for his travels and his passion for playing Rugby. When the rugby season came around, he headed North to Townsville in Queensland, to play for the Brothers Rugby Club.
The Brothers Rugby Union Club Townsville was established in 1967, originally under the name “All Schools”, by a group of rugby enthusiasts in Townsville. Training sessions were held under car headlights at Queens Park. In 1968, the club officially changed its name to “Brothers”, reflecting the unity and brotherhood within the team. Over the decades, Brothers has grown into one of the most respected and successful rugby union clubs in North Queensland, with teams ranging from juniors to seniors, for both men and women. The club has a proud tradition of strong performances in local and regional competitions and continues to play a key role in the development of rugby in the region. Brothers Townsville is also part of the Brothers Rugby Fraternity, a network of “Brothers” clubs across Australia and New Zealand, fostering a spirit of community and collaboration between clubs.
Pudis said “My Experience Joining Brothers Rugby Union Club Townsville for the 2025 Season and playing in 9 matches has been an incredible experience — warm, exciting, and truly unforgettable. I still remember my very first training session. I was nervous at first, but that quickly faded as teammates came up to introduce themselves, chat, and make me feel welcome from the very beginning. Throughout the training sessions and the entire 2025 season, which ended with our team achieving the GRAND SLAM title in the Senior division, it has been an amazing journey — both for the team and for me personally” Pudis has been an integral part of this seasons Championship winning team, playing at scrum half and covering both the full back and wing positions when required.
Pudis continued “I’m proud to have been part of such a special environment. I’ve learned and grown a lot, not just as a player, but also through experiencing Australian culture firsthand. I’m deeply thankful to every teammate at Brothers for the warm welcome and great friendship, and to all the coaches for the guidance, support, and technical advice they’ve given me — thank you. There’s a phrase that we often say as a team, and it’s one I’ve truly come to love: “Nothing more, nothing less – UP THE FISH!” I’d also like to thank Cobras Rugby Club and Chiang Mai CM ALL STAR for their constant support and encouragement. And a special thank you to Prince Royals College Rugby Club, where my journey with rugby began — and where I found my passion for the sport that brought me to where I am today. Thank you.”
As the 2025 playing season closed Pudis met up with Cobras & All Stars team mate, Rowen Carroll, to watch the recent Australia v Argentina Rugby Championship match which was held in Townsville.
When Pudis returns he will no doubt bring with him a wealth of experience that he can pass on to the local rugby community.
I am sure Pudis will be looking at another trip to Australia in 2026 for more rugby adventures or perhaps to another rugby playing nation to further his playing career and experience. It’s an inspiring journey that is an example for all the young kids out there, that sport can lead to life changing expeiences if you chase your dream.
Congratulations Pudis Sangsuwan!
Pat Cotter
