When Jackson Shereb entered the field of play late in the game against the Brisbane Broncos in Round 10, it made years of sweat and toil worthwhile.
The 24-year-old edge forward was named in the #16 jersey, but it wasn’t until he was called on in the 69th minute of the match, that he officially became Sea Eagle #671.
Under the new six-man interchange system it’s a bit of waiting game for those on the extended bench. Although named in the 17, it’s only when the call comes from the coaches’ box, that a player knows it’s game on.
For Shereb, the wait was over.
After spending four years at St George Illawarra Dragons where he played almost 50 games in the NSW Cup, and another 12 months playing in the Queensland Cup, Jackson was finally rewarded with his NRL debut.
When presented with his jersey by assistant coach Jim Dymock, Shereb was beyond grateful.
“Ever since I started playing footy, this is all I wanted,” he said.
“I'm just very grateful to do this at this club and with you boys. You have made me feel at home, and I am so very grateful for this.”
In the minutes immediately after full time following his team’s 32-4 victory over the Broncos, Shereb was again quick to point out how easily he had adjusted to life at his new club.
I’ve found a home at Manly, I love my footy here, I love the boys and I'm just stoked to be here.
Jackson Shereb
"It didn't work out too well down at the Dragons, it just wasn’t to be.
"I went away to Queensland last year and just sort of found my best footy and luckily enough that paid off and I got a contract here. It just feels like home.”
Shereb’s very first NRL game was Jake Trbojevic’s 250th, making the occasion even more memorable.
“It was very special for me to be a part of that,” he said.
“I wasn't too certain how it would work out today, but to be a part of it alongside someone who the club is built around, it’s very special.
“Getting to play with people like Jake, I love it here.”
Shereb is again in the 17 for this weekend's match against the Wests Tigers in Magic Round.
