83.7 % of Novocastrian Males Have a Mancrush On Kalyn Ponga

From the Johns Brothers to J-Hawk to Celebrity Vet Chris Brown- Newcastle residents support their own. They've even supported the very weird recent phases of Daniel Johns' career. But there is one bloke garnering more love and support than any of them right now, and that's Kalyn Ponga.

Since flying down from North Queensland for this Rugby League season, he has impressed all and sundry with his lightning feet, bullet pass and humble demeanor. And he has had such a profound effect on the local men, that it has left them feeling a little confused.

We caught up with Wayne Berner (28) and Gaz McLean (33) at Newcastle's famed Merewether Beach, and asked them how they felt about Newcastle's current Fullback. 

Wayne was enthusiastic.

“Yeah mate he's a cracker. Every time he swings around on that left edge I'm half way out of my seat. But would I call it a mancrush? Tough question. Yeah look I think I would. He just seems like a great guy and I'm just so glad he's here in Newy playing for us. And mate there's better looking blokes out there. Clearly. But yeah I think he's fantastic that's all. I'd love to meet him. But I'd probably be too nervous to talk or something."

Gaz largely agreed with his friend's assessment.

 "I'm with Wayne on this one. It's not like I want to boof him or anything. I just think he's the complete package. Top young bloke, great smile and one of the most exciting footy talents in my living memory. I'd love to be his mate."

And it seems they're not alone. A whopping 83.7% of Newcastle's men said they'd describe their feelings about him as a "mancrush". So while the Hunter region is still very much a tough, working class area, Kalyn has managed to tame the hearts of the locals.

We finished by asking the boys how their love affair with Kalyn compares to Joey. They both pointed out that Joey is an immortal, and has done more for their town than just about anyone. But there's something about Kalyn. He's a keeper. And if they had to be stranded on a desert island with one of them, they'd both choose Kalyn in a heartbeat.