The 2021 season has seen a number of young players debut.
Interestingly, some of them have fathers who played rugby league and several have fathers are involved in the game in coaching capacities.
These are the rugby league players who have NRL in their DNA.
Sam Walker
On April 4, 2021 Sam debuted for the Sydney Roosters. He played in the position halfback and played an impressive 80 minutes. Sam is the son of Ben Walker, the former professional rugby league player. Ben also played in the halves for several NRL clubs as well as in the English Super League.
(Photo by Jason McCawley/Getty Images)
Jakob Arthur
Jakob debuted for the Parramatta Eels on May 16, 2021. He played halfback, played 80 minutes and scored a try. It was a very good effort from the 18-year-old. Jakob is the son of Parramatta head coach Brad Arthur.
Kobe Hetherington
Kobe made his first-grade debut on May 22, 2021 for the Brisbane Broncos. He played hooker from the interchange bench and played 26 minutes. Kobe is the son of former player Jason Hetherington. Jason played for several NRL clubs as well as in the Super League.
Jayden Campbell
On June 5, 2021 in Round 13 of the National Rugby League season, Jayden debuted for the Gold Coast Titans at fullback. The 21-year-old is the son of Preston Campbell, the Titans legend. Preston also played for NSW Country and the Indigenous All Stars.
They join a host of young players with DNA in the NRL.
They include Billy Walters from the Wests Tigers. Billy’s father Kevin is a former player and current head coach at the Brisbane Broncos.
There is also Lachlan Lam, who plays for the Sydney Roosters. Lachlan’s father Adrian is a former NRL player and current head coach at the Wigan Warriors.
DaveTarquin
Roar Rookie
That is just scratching the surface of players with NRL DNA in their genes. At the Roosters alone the following 7 players all had fathers play in the NRL. Brett &,Josh Morris, Nat & Egan Butcher, Lachie Lam, Freddie Lussick & Sam Walker (there could be more)
3 R M
Guest
Add his grandfather his great uncles on his grandmothers side and there's probably more than that.
Big Daddy
Roar Rookie
I thought he was a direct descendant of Captain James Cook. What sport did they play in those days.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Damien Cook’s cousin Alistair opened the batting for England…
The Barry
Roar Guru
I was on the train so not giggling but mildly impressed with myself… :silly: I was hoping there’d be a few people jumping in…
Rellum
Roar Guru
Didn't want to mention Sam Walkers uncles?
Nat
Roar Guru
I think Brimson has FB covered for a while. Although Brimson moving into 5/8 might make it interesting but that might be next year.
Nat
Roar Guru
I bet you were giggling silly fininishing that one? :laughing: :laughing:
brookvalesouth
Roar Rookie
Josh Schuster’s uncle played 50 odd games for Newcastle and a 1000 for Halifax.
John Shaw
Roar Rookie
Jayden Campbell looks like a very special player in the making. The Titans are an exciting team to watch. I'm a Dragons supporter but love watching both Tino and Fifita play, and now add young Jayden Campbell to that list also. It's looking like the Titans will be a major force in just a few short years.
The Barry
Roar Guru
Jack Hetherington’s dad Brett played with the Roosters Reimis Smith’s dad was Tyran Smith We’ve got a couple of Matty Johns’ progeny playing first grade Nicho Hynes’ mum Marcia was a 70s disco icon… Corey Oates’ Uncle Toby made a popular breakfast cereal… Cody Walker’s father Kit was the 21st Phantom…