St George Illawarra Dragons National Youth Competition team second-rower Jacob Host is excited to be able to test himself against Wests Tigers at ANZ Stadium, Olympic Park on Sunday.
The Renown United junior is in the midst of his first season with the Young Dragons having graduated from the St George SG Ball team midway through the season and admits he has a lot to learn at this playing grade.
Host is thankful for the mentorship provided to him by NYC co-Head Coach Dean Young, who played 209 first-grade games in numerous positions including lock and hooker for the Club, and believes the latter’s advice is invaluable.
“Playing for the Under 20s has certainly been a step-up from playing junior reps but I really feel like I have settled in,” said Host.
“We are all working hard for one another this season and trying hard to achieve the goals we have all set this year regarding this team.
“Dean has been very beneficial to my career so far, having played in the forward pack for over a decade, and I am thankful that he is always there for me to pick his brain about things and pass on advice.
"We suffered a narrow loss to the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles last round and need to bounce-back against the Tigers this weekend.
"All the boys have been training hard as well are all aware that a place in the Finals gets closer with every win we achieve."
