JOE WESTERMAN: I’m motivated by relationships, not money, when it comes to staying with Castleford Tigers. I have always loved the Tigers from the depth of my soul because of the passion of the fans, the history of the club, and the loyalty we share in the squad. To me, this is more than a contract — this is home.
Castleford Tigers veteran Joe Westerman has admitted that money has never been the driving force behind his commitment to the club, instead pointing to the people and relationships that make the Tigers special.
“I’m motivated by relationships, not money, when it comes to staying with Castleford,” Westerman said. “I’ve always loved the Tigers from the depth of my soul because of the passion of the fans, the family feel in the town, and the bond we share as a squad. To me, this is home.”
Westerman, who has played across Super League but returned to Wheldon Road in 2022, explained that the unique environment within the club keeps him pushing forward. He highlighted the work of head coach Chris Chester, as well as the support staff who keep the team grounded.
“Chris Chester has been brilliant for us. He brings honesty and a vision that everyone can buy into,” Westerman added. “And it’s not just the coaching staff — the physios, the trainers, everyone behind the scenes, they make Castleford what it is.”
The Tigers are currently in a period of rebuilding, with young talents like Jason Qareqare and Sam Hall stepping up alongside seasoned figures such as Paul McShane and Nathan Massey. Westerman believes this mix of youth and experience, guided by McGuire and his staff, is key to the club’s future.
“Lads like Qareqare and Hall bring so much energy, and you’ve got leaders like Macca [McShane] and Massey showing them the ropes,” Westerman said. “It’s a real family environment here, and that’s what drives me. You don’t get that everywhere.”
As the Tigers prepare for the challenges ahead, Westerman’s words reflect a wider sentiment within the club — that loyalty, community, and relationships matter just as much as silverware.
For Westerman, the Black and Amber jersey is more than a kit. It’s a lifelong bond.