A DEBUT with the Wests Tigers under 20s is less than a month away for St Pat’s rising star Riley Cheshire.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The towering forward was recently signed by the NRL club to participate in next year’s new-look NSW junior competition and he’s keen for his biggest test to date.
Cheshire made his Group 10 premier league debut during the 2016 season in the forward pack before the age of 18.
The experience in the region’s top level proved invaluable for Cheshire who was one of the key players in the Western Rams’ Country Championships success.
“I’ve learnt so much from that experience. Playing in premier league helped make me a better footballer,” Cheshire said.
“It means a lot for me to get here. I’ve been working really hard ever since I was playing in under 16s, training non-stop to get to this point.
“After the Country Championships I was selected for NSW Country and I was really thankful for that opportunity.”
The National Youth Competition was brought to a close this year, separating the under 20s competition into separate NSW and Queensland battles.
Cheshire’s path towards the new competition has been underway for several weeks now, travelling to training sessions and honing his game.
“We have a trial game against the Roosters coming up on December 16 and then the pre-season will start on January 4,” he said.
“It’s a whole new level over there. It’s a lot more physically demanding.
“It was a bit daunting at first but I’m starting to get to know everyone there.”
The Pat’s forward said he’s incredibly thankful for all the support he’s received with the blue and white.
“I’d like to thank [outgoing Pat’s premier league coach] Kurt Hancock, who’s mentored me really well over the past couple of years,” he said.
It means a lot for me to get here. I’ve been working really hard ever since I was playing in under 16s, training non-stop to get to this point.
- Riley Cheshire
“I’d also like to thank my brother [Brady] who I made my first grade debut alongside. He’s always been there to help me.”