St George Illawarra Dragons lock Trent Merrin is excited to be making his hundredth milestone appearance for the Club against the Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium, Moore Park on Friday.
The Shellharbour Sharks junior admits it will be a very special moment to make his century representing his boyhood team and to do so on a day like ANZAC Day.
The NSW Blues representative, who has played seven times for his state, made his debut during the 2009 campaign against the Penrith Panthers and has scored ten tries to date.
“It’s awesome, when I was told I was coming up to 100 games in the Red V I was pretty excited and for it to fall on ANZAC Day I think that’s extremely special,” sad Merrin.
“You grow up dreaming of playing grade and to be able to notch up a hundred games for this club is very special for me.
“I don’t feel too old, but the body feels pretty old sometimes, but I think the time has gone quickly.
“There’s a few memories, but the grand final is one that sticks with me.
“To be able to pull on the Red V and run out there and win a grand final is awesome, nothing beats that feeling and that’s what we’re aiming for this year and in the future.
“Day one takes me back a few years. I remember being the ‘apprentice’.
“I was in there with Michael Weyman and Justin Paul, they used to beat me up at training a bit, but they took me under their wing.
“I owe a lot to Michael Weyman he really helped me along the way and pushed me to my limits.
“A lot of credit goes to him, but of course there’s many people who have helped me through it all over the years.
“It’s just incredibly special to play on ANZAC Day. I was a young pup when I ran out for my first ANZAC Day match.
“The butterflies and the adrenaline are pumping at the same time, it’s a fantastic experience and it’s definitely a favourite day to play.
“I’m really looking forward to running out there on Friday, especially on such a special occasion for our country.
“They’re a good team, they always muscle up when we play them, especially on ANZAC Day, it’s such a great match to be a part of, and I’m expecting a big game for both teams.
“I’d like to be considered for the rep games, and obviously that’s something you strive for as a player, to pull on the jersey for your country.
“I just have to keep working hard, play consistent footy and the rest is up to the selectors.”
