In his third season at the Gold Coast Titans, Erin Clark is forever grateful for his opportunity and continues to grow with the No. 9 on his back.
As shared recently in an emotional video with his mum and Gold Coast Titans Netball coach Temepara Bailey - the 24-year-old is appreciative of his chance to join the club, helping him get his life back on track, alongside his children.
The power of Mum: Erin and Temepara's Titanic bond
Starting the year in fine form as the Titans rake, the Kiwi All Stars representative has been impressed with his defensive effort - currently leading the club's tackle tally with 348 over 11 games - and is continually working with Titans coach Justin Holbrook on his running game to become more dynamic out of dummy-half.
"I'm always learning and always trying to learn. [Justin] reckons I'm slowly getting better and adding new things to my arsenal," Clark said.
"I try and put a lot into my defence and sometimes takes a toll on my running game. That's always been something I need to work on, just trying to find that balance around.
"I think early in the rounds, I found that I ran a bit more but in the last few weeks, I haven't really, so it's really something I want to get back.
"Every week, I just try to give good service and try and run when I can. [Justin's] only given good feedback. I'm still learning though and it's still a process."
Set to face off against the Broncos in the Macca's local derby, the rake can't wait to run out against their intrastate rivals who are in red-hot form.
Match: Broncos v Titans
Round 12 -
home Team
Broncos
4th Position
away Team
Titans
14th Position
Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
"It's definitely a great game to play. In the last few years, it's been a tough one. It's always a tough game but we've come out on top a number of times," Clark said.
"They're going really well this year, so that's always a challenge, but I think if we just get our process right and focus everything on our side right then, we'll go a long way to winning the game."
The weekend is also special as Bailey prepares for her first ever Netball home game on Sunday at Carrara Indoor Sports Stadium.
"She's done really well. They've won a couple of games already this year," Clark said.
"To play at home, I'll definitely try and get a few of the boys down to support just to bring that club culture and that.
"Everyone saw on the video the club released last week how much it means to me to have my mum here, and I'm just really proud."