Welcome to Chapter 3 of ‘Jake’s Kangaroos diary’.
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles lock Jake Trbojevic is writing a diary about his first Australian Kangaroos tour.
Today, Jake shares his thoughts on his Test debut at Hull, his family, to the great support shown by supporters.
Jake’s Kangaroos Diary
Hello Manly Members and supporters.
What a week it has been for not only myself, but for the Trbojevic family.
It was a great honour first of all to receive my jersey from an Origin and Australian great in Trevor 'The Axe' Gillmeister.
Making my Test debut at lock for Australia was definitely a dream come true. It felt a bit surreal at times. I couldn’t believe it.
To have my parents, Melissa and John, in the crowd at Hull for my Kangaroos debut against Scotland was something very, very special.
It was a great moment for them and I knew they wouldn’t have missed it for the world. I speak on behalf of my brothers, Tom, Luke, and Ben, when I say we are very fortunate and grateful to have them as our parents.
Growing up, Mum and Dad used to watch all of my games whether it be playing for the mighty Mona Vale Raiders, Australian Schoolboys, to making my NRL debut for the Sea Eagles.
As for the match, we knew Scotland would never give in. They had some quality players from the NRL and the Super League, so they were always going to have a crack.
And to score a try for Australia in my debut is a feeling I will never forget. It was amazing. I couldn’t believe it. It is not every day you make your Test debut and manage to cross for a try.
Mona Vale Raiders
One of the things I discovered before my Test debut was that I was going to be the first player from my junior club, the Mona Vale Raiders, to represent the Kangaroos.
It is an honour I don’t take lightly. I love the Raiders, and to be involved with the club through my parents and brothers, is something I will always cherish. We have made many great friends there. I will always make time to do whatever I can for the Raiders.
Messages of support
I just like to thank all the Manly members and supporters, as well as many friends, who took the time out to post a message on the Sea Eagles’ Facebook and Twitter accounts.
I was very moved to read so many messages congratulating me on representing Australia. The support I have received over the past few years from Sea Eagles fans has been incredible and I am truly touched by your support. I am proud to represent Manly and now Australia.
Melbourne Cup
We might be in England but there was no way the Kangaroos were going to miss out on watching the Melbourne Cup.
We had a sweep going. My squad number on all my gear is 20, so I had number 20, Oceanographer. It is still running!
Michael Morgan had the winner and collected 150 pounds, David Klemmer got second (50 pounds) and Josh Dugan won 30 pounds for third place. My mate ‘Woodsy’ got his 10 pounds back after his horse in the sweep ran last.
As for the team, we now head to Birmingham on Thursday for the game in Coventry against the Kiwis. I am just taking in every moment and it is great to be able to continue to learn from the best players in the game.
Until I write again, up the Sea Eagles.
Cheers, Jake
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