If Todd Murphy’s current form for the Newtown Jets is anything to by, it’s not long until he takes off in first grade for the Cronulla Sharks.
After signing with the Sharks at the end of 2014, Murphy has continued his hot streak in the VB NSW Cup for the Jets following his impressive season in the Queensland Cup in which he came second in the Player of the Year award.
The 24-year-old dynamic half is just waiting for his chance to make the next step into first grade.
“Yes 100% [I’m ready for first grade], it’s just a matter of getting a go, and when I do get it, I’ll grab it with both hands,” says Murphy.
When given the opportunity, Murphy knows he will be capable of leading the Sharks.
“If I get a go, I won’t overplay my hand and just steer the team around and guide them as best I can. Then I can just slowly progress each game and just get better and start building some combinations, [then] it will all come together.”
Murphy achieved plenty of success as a part-time player for Norths Devils in 2014, earning selection for the Queensland Residents team and coming runner up in the player of the year while also working as an electrician.
Now with the Sharks’ full-time squad, Murphy has gained a tremendous amount of experience and knowledge, training with superstars such as Paul Gallen, Luke Lewis, Andrew Fifita and Michael Ennis.
“They’ve represented their state and played for Australia,” Murphy says. “They’ve always got words of advice so whenever they say something you just listen.”
Murphy is a clever halfback and possesses the complete package in attack, excelling in his passing and kicking game with an ability to run the ball as well as provide support in play.
He has been instrumental for the Jets so far this season as an integral part of their attack and says that he is enjoying his time in the VB NSW Cup with his new club.
“It’s good, [it is a] new squad of boys, and being full time its good to play with the blokes you spend every day with so I’m enjoying it so far.”
Adding to his fast-tracked progression, Murphy drove the Sharks to their Auckland Nines Grand Final appearance and were only one try away from winning their first major trophy since the 1999 minor premiership. Murphy was one of the tournament’s stand outs with many critics praising his performance and predicting a bright career in first grade.
“It’s a different format of the game so sometimes it’s hard to show what you can do,” said Murphy. “But it was a good experience, especially going over there with some quality players and nearly winning it made it that much better for us.”
Murphy has proven that he can overcome any challenge; playing first grade won’t be any different.
