Keano Kini has honed in his focus to be playing NRL each week as the battle for spots in the 17 begins to heat up.
Entering his fourth week of pre-season after returning from a whirlwind experience with the Kiwis, the 19-year-old has been one of the standouts in the early stages of preparations at Parkwood, hoping he can add more first grade games to the tally after six appearances in 2023
"My goal right now is just to try and make that 17," Kini said.
"I want to do whatever I can to be in the team, but if that doesn't happen, I'll just keep working hard in Q Cup."
Humbly hosing down praise heaped on the exciting rookie in the battle for the Titans No. 1 jersey, the fast-flying fullback knows he still has plenty to learn in his fledgling career, blocking out the external noise and commentary about who should be playing where.
"It's all just talk... all that really matters is what happens on the training field and on the field," Kini said.
"I've got a lot to prove and JC and AJ have already proven themselves, so I just need to keep working hard."
Revealing he has bulked up slightly over the past few weeks without losing his speed, Kini has also relished Hasler's mentoring over the past month, especially with his hands on coaching to help the rising star continue to develop.
"He is tough, but he's really good one on one and he's really helped all of us boys," he said.
"Our conversations have been really in depth and that's something I need as young fullback.
"I'm still learning a lot in the game and he's teaching me a lot, so I'm just trying to take it all in.
"Hopefully we can play for him this year and do good as a team."
