Jaylan De Groot may never be able to live 'that moment' down from last year's trial against the Broncos.
Famously dubbed the 'shin-kicker' by Fox League's Andrew Voss, the 19-year-old set up a freakish try for Treymain Spry all thanks to a clever cover-up of what was set to be an error that was quickly whisked into brilliance at the start of 2022.
Spry doubles-up
Working hard through a tough pre-season at Parkwood as part of his full-season train-and-trial deal before joining the Titans development list in 2024, the teen sensation will get a fresh chance to earn another pseudonym when he takes to the field again for the Coast against Brisbane on Sunday.
"It was an awesome experience to pull on the Titans jersey and play at Cbus which some people don't get to do... I was lucky enough to do it and play in front of my family, my mates and the crowd that we had," De Groot said.
"Thinking back to the game, I've taken little bits away that I can do better next time, so I'm going to try and better myself for the next game.
"It's definitely awesome to get some footy back, especially after this pre-season... you can definitely feel with the boys that the atmosphere is building up that we're about to start playing footy again, so everyone is loving it."
Match: Broncos v Titans
Round 1 -
home Team
Broncos
8th Position
away Team
Titans
9th Position
Venue: Sunshine Coast Stadium, Sunshine Coast
Set to play a similar role to last year this Sunday, it's expected the Cudgen Hornets junior will play a role in the backend of the game - giving plenty of time for De Groot to pick up a try and try assist much like in the corresponding fixture last season.
"I've spoken to Justin a little bit and he's said I'm going to play the same amount as last year, so I'll just come on for the second half," he revealed.
"I'm not too sure where I'm playing yet, but I'm pretty happy to play anywhere, just as long as I involved... that's all I'm looking to do and have some fun."
Aiming to make his Hostplus Cup debut in 2023 with the Tweed Seagulls, the versatile fullback / five-eighth has enjoyed his time at Titans HQ during the pre-season, soaking in as much as he can before he officially joins the playing roster next season.
"Week-in, week-out when I come to training, I've just been looking at what it takes be in a NRL squad," De Groot said.
"Just the extra efforts that everyone is doing... even pre-game, just to watch a few of the boys and see what their patterns are to get them going for the game.
"You just look around and see some of the people you're training with and I never would've thought three years ago that I'd I think I'd be here training with these quality NRL players.
"It's surreal and an awesome experience, so I just try to use it as a learning curve and better myself too."
