He carries the expectations of many as the coach’s son, however Kyle Flanagan has so far put aside the pressure and produced the goods during the early stages of his footballing career.
A half back, taller and some would say possessing more pace than his father Shane who played as a hooker before becoming an NRL coach.
Kyle impressed many in 2017, with his 20 tries and 140 goals smashing the single season Holden Cup point scoring record.
While still having a year of eligibility in the Under 20’s in 2018, Flanagan has trained throughout the summer with the NRL squad and wouldn’t be out of place should an opportunity arise in the top grade later this season.
Although such decisions have yet to be made, Flanagan could also turn out in the blue of the Newtown Jets early next year as his mind and body gets the chance to develop against senior opposition before he gets the call up into the NRL side.
Following another session under the hot summer sun late in the week, Flanagan took time out to speak with Sharks TV.
In the second instalment of our ‘Young Guns’ series, Flanagan spoke of learning his craft alongside the experienced members of the Sharks NRL squad, his goals for 2018, and how he handles the coach when they get back home after a long day on the training paddock.
See what he had to say, now playing on Sharks TV.
Kyle Flanagan – Fact File
Born – September 15, 1998 – Sydney
Junior Club – Aquinas Colts
Position – half back
Height – 183cm
Weight – 88kgs
2017 NYC Stats
- 26 game
- 20 tries
- 140 goals
- 360 points (Holden Cup single season points record)