NSWRL.com.au caught up with Josh Addo-Carr after he made his Intrust Super Premiership debut in Round 1, 2016. Now a Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues representative, here's what Addo-Carr had to say.
It was something of a dream club debut for exciting Wests Tigers prospect Josh Addo-Carr on Saturday, with the speedy winger bagging two tries as the Tigers defeated the Manly Sea Eagles 34-16. Addo-Carr was solid on and off the ball, combining well with fullback Watson Heleta and standout half Josh Drinkwater in scorching conditions at Campbelltown Sports Ground.
While many were impressed by the performance, it was extra special for Addo-Carr – he’s been a passionate supporter of the Wests Tigers his whole life.
"It’s a good club - I’m honoured to play for them," the 20-year-old told NSWRL.com.au post-game. "I’ve gone for them since I was yay big, so it is special because I’m just passionate about the club."
Despite spending much of his Rugby League development in Rabbitohs heartland Addo-Carr has long been a member of the Tigers - and support runs through his family. It was a major honour when the emerging talent signed to the club on a one-year deal last year, having scored 28 tries in 44 Holden Cup games for the Cronulla Sharks.
In just his second game in the Intrust Super Premiership, however, Addo-Carr wasn’t put off by the increased intensity.
"It’s a big step up from '20s I suppose," Addo-Carr said. "The physical contact is so much more, the speed is probably a bit slower but physical contact is out of control.
"The heat today was out of control, through preseason it’s probably been the same temperatures but today was intense. We needed those drinks breaks."
The Moore Park and La Perouse junior has significant competition for first grade centre, wing and fullback spots at the Tigers; Justin Hunt was signed to the club last year, David Nofoaluma, Tim Simona and Kevin Naiqama have secure positions and centre Chance Peni scored a double himself in the Tigers’ Intrust Super Premiership NSW victory. That hasn’t slashed Addo-Carr’s hopes, however, who already has his sights set on making his NRL debut in 2016.
"Hopefully I get called up," he explained. "I’ll take whatever I get I suppose, it doesn’t bother me, my time will come. I’m more than happy to play Intrust Super Premiership but if I get called up to first grade then that’s great."
The youngster has done all he can to put his name forward after one game for the Tigers – his next task will be breaking open the New Zealand Warriors’ defence at Leichhardt Oval in Round 2.
