St George Illawarra Dragons centre Euan Aitken is keen to don the NSW Country Origin jersey when he faces the NSW City Origin team at Scully Park Regional Sporting Precinct, Tamworth on Sunday.
The Merimbula/Pambula Bulldogs junior is poised to make his debut for the representative team and one of three Dragons players, alongside Tyson Frizell and Jack de Belin, named for the annual contest by Head Coach Matt Parish.
Aitken has relished the opportunity to progress his own game in the new environment and has enjoyed being able to link-up with players he usually would not be able to.
“It feels amazing to be able to represent the country areas of NSW as it is where I grew up so it’s good to put on the jersey,” said Aitken.
“I’ve enjoyed the week so far learning off some of the other boys as well as, more importantly, the coaching staff.
“It has been a relaxed camp when we aren’t training hard on the field but there is excitement about getting in and around the supporters in Tamworth.
“It has been good being able to experience this with both Jack and Tyson but it has also allowed me the chance to meet other players in the competition I wouldn’t have the chance to hang with usually.
“I hope it is a stepping stone for things to come which is a good thing.”
