“I’ve learned plenty of lessons,” Hynes said. “I’ve matured as a player and person,and I feel like I’m in a better spot than I was this time last year physically,mentally and as a footballer.”
A group of high school students gave new captain Jake Trbojevic a cheer when he arrived at the team hotel at Sydney Olympic Park.
Jake Trbojevic said he was proud to have been given the NSW captaincy.Credit:Kate Geraghty
On his appointment as captain,Trbojevic said:“I was surprised if I’m being honest,but it’s a great honour,and any time you get to play for your state is special.
“To captain the Blues,it will be a great experience. I was very shocked,but also very proud. I’ll play the way I always do:I’ll be passionate,and that side will come out in me. Obviously,I don’t captain at club level,but one of my strengths is being passionate. I won’t change anything. And that’s what ‘Madge’[Maguire] told me to do.”
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Manly teammate and Maroons skipper Daly Cherry-Evans had reached out to Trbojevic to congratulate him,but Trbojevic joked that would be their last exchange ahead of next Wednesday.
A seasoned representative player,Trbojevic was one of the few who packed his golf clubs.
Rugby Australia’s prized recruit Joseph Suaalii,who has known Maguire since he was 13,said he had not considered whether his looming code switch could harm his chances of selection.
“I honestly haven’t really thought about rugby,” Suaalii said. “Obviously I signed a deal there,but I’m just focused on the playing for the Blues now.”
Angus Crichton and Spencer Leniu arrived together,as did Liam Martin and Jarome Luai,while Brian To’o and debutant Haumole Olakau’atu emerged from the same car.
Mitch Barnett was the first player to arrive in camp,just before midday,and immediately recalled his favourite Origin moment growing up.
“It would have to be the Paul Gallen and the ‘left,right,good night’,” said Barnett,referring to Gallen’s famous scuffle with Nate Myles in 2013.
“It’s been a long time I’ve waited for this. I’ll be a sponge and soak it all up. I’ll bring a good attitude and do whatever I can to help the boys get ready for the game.”
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