Joseph Paulo didn’t fully grasp the meaning of hard work until he had to captain a bunch of tradies and businessmen at last year’s rugby league World Cup.

And it’s an experience he believes has made him a better man and NRL player.

The Parramatta back-rower was one of just a few full-time professional footballers in an inexperienced USA Tomahawks squad that included a railroad worker, gas fitter, supermarket storeman, a tyre shop owner and even a fire dancer.

Most had to take annual leave to play at the tournament.

“It was a big role for me to play … but it gave me a lot of joy,” Paulo told AAP.

“Playing with guys that have to work on a daily basis and train twice a week, you sort of understand the mentality of hard work. They really brought that and showed me.

“I’m just really grateful for that opportunity.”

Despite never having qualified for a World Cup before, the Tomahawks won two from three group matches under Paulo’s guidance to reach the quarter-finals – only to be thrashed 62-0 by Australia.

The 26-year-old said the experience has helped make him a more confident player, which he hopes will rub off on the Eels’ youngsters and translate to greater on-field success this season.

“Leading a team like that … brings that confidence to my own ability – the (type of) confidence where you’re just enjoying your footy,” he said.

“It makes a big difference when you’re just going out there and just backing yourself.

“These past couple of months have just been about growing in confidence and trying to encourage the young guys coming through the club.

“They could take my spot, yeah. I know we’re all fighting for something. But if that means the team becomes better, then I’m happy with that.”

The Eels kick off their 2014 campaign on Sunday against the Warriors at Pirtek Stadium.