It’s been known for some time that Dylan Egan won’t be playing in the much-anticipated season opener against the Bulldogs at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, but that didn’t stop coach Shane Flanagan from getting him on the plane.
Both Egan and the Dragons’ coaching staff are “all in” when it comes to the young forward’s potential.
The 21-year-old ruptured his ACL a little over nine months ago, but despite being unavailable to take the field, the Gerringong junior was the first Dragon to learn he’d be on the trip.
“Dylan’s attacked his injury rehab like an ultimate professional. He’s done what anyone could have asked for, and we saw an opportunity to bring him as the 23rd squad member so he can be part of the group and feel the experience with the team,” Flanagan told Dragons.com.au.
“He’s got a chance to be a big part of the future at the Dragons, and this will continue his development and connection with the squad.”
Flanagan was quick to tell Egan it wouldn’t be a holiday, and in fact, he would have a distinct role as part of the wider travelling crew. He will also continue his rehab as he pushes toward his targeted return date, likely around Rounds 8-10 of the NRL season.
“I was stoked when Flano told me I’d be going... I’ll handle a lot of the external extras and take that pressure off the boys so they can focus on the game. Whatever helps the boys, I’ll do. I’d get a ride in someone’s bag if I’m being honest, just to be part of it.”
Dylan Egan
“I was stoked when Flano told me I’d be going,” Egan said. “But I have my role to help the team try to get what they ultimately are there to do – get the two competition points. I’ll handle a lot of the external extras and take that pressure off the boys so they can focus on the game. Whatever helps the boys, I’ll do. I’d get a ride in someone’s bag if I’m being honest, just to be part of it.”
Egan, who hasn’t travelled stateside before, expects the trip to be an eye-opener and says the excitement is building. The big bright lights of Vegas are a little different from his upbringing.
“The population of Gerringong is probably the same population as some of the bloody hotels, so it’s going to be different,” he laughed. “You see a lot of stuff on social media, and it sounds a bit crazy, to be honest, so I’m very keen to go see what it’s all about.
“It’s definitely a massive event that you’ll probably remember for the rest of your life. You’ve just got to take it in and not take it for granted, but definitely not go away from what you’re there for. Everyone knows that we’re there for a game, and everyone’s intentions are for that.”
Whilst it will be Egan’s first trip to the US, his knowledge of American sports is proven, given the second rower is fresh off claiming the club’s NFL Fantasy Football gong. He admits well-known American fast-food establishments like In-N-Out Burger also present some intrigue, but any side treats of the culinary variety will have to be earned.
“I don’t know when the NFL combine is, but I want to go there and do some draft research. I won the Dragons’ Fantasy NFL League this year, so I’ve just got to go back-to-back now,” he laughed. “Blocka (Blake Lawrie) decided to give me all my prize money in coins. I still haven’t actually got that transferred, but I might need to, so I can tip some people over there.
“I don’t see myself as someone to get sucked into many American ways, but there’s definitely a lot of food over there that could get my attention. I will watch what I eat, but if I train hard over there, then hopefully I’ll be able to try out a burger or something.”
Given how he earned his way on the plane, it’s a comfortable bet he’ll earn the right for a double-double burger also.
