Keano Kini is still pinching himself on his whirlwind 2023 season that included a NRL debut, grand final appearance and an unexpected International call-up... all at the ripe old age of just 19.
Playing six games of first grade last season after his dream start at Magic Round, the teen sensation now wants more and has that Gold Coast No. 1 jersey firmly in his sights - part of a three-way battle alongside AJ Brimson and Jayden Campbell for that fullback position.
It's a contest Kini is relishing with his favourite position at the back, but he's also put his hand up to play anywhere if it gets him a regular start in the NRL.
"It’s definitely healthy competition with all of us wanting to play in that spot," he told 9 News Queensland.
"Our goal is to just get in that 17 and that’s my number one goal. I want to find my way into the 17, even if it’s not in that No. 1 jersey.
"I’m happy to play anywhere in the backs… if Des wants me to play anywhere, I’ll take it with two hands.
"I’ll just keep learning off them and I’ve got a lot to learn myself so I’m looking forward to it."
Not only impressing at such a young age in the top grade, the Future Titans alum was superhuman in the recent Hostplus Cup decider even despite his Bears team falling short of taking out the big dance.
Earning the Duncan Hall Medal for his undisputed best on ground performance, Kini couldn't be overlooked to join the Kiwis' Test squad that won the Pacific Championships against the Kiwis.
Whilst not taking the field across the three weeks of his first taste of International rugby league, the Gold Coast young gun did get the chance to learn from some of the best in the game, especially fellow fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, who took him under his wing.
"Being in that Kiwis camp has helped me with my confidence, especially learning off players like Charnze - he was a big one for me," Kini said.
"I could mention a lot of boys in that camp, but I sat down with him and did a lot of video and he really helped me out a lot to continually improve my game.
"To be part of that winning culture, especially in that final – it was special to be part of it and learn from those players who have a winning culture and I feel like that’s going to help me a lot this year."
About to complete his second week back at Parkwood since returning from his break, the former Palm Beach Currumbin student enjoyed a highly-memorable distraction from the grind of pre-season, taking time out of his busy week on Wednesday to join with Josiah Pahulu in a surprise visit to Flagstone State School for their Year 6 graduation.
"I really enjoy visits like this and I want to inspire these young kids," Kini said.
"Even if they might not know us, they see the Titans logo on our chest and hopefully they can be inspired to play for the Titans or even just get involved in sport.
"Josiah and I have put our hand up to visit a couple of schools now. We really enjoy it and it's so good to see the smiles on the kids faces when we meet and talk to them."
