Following the cruel blow of a broken jaw on NRL debut for the Sharks earlier this year, winger Sione Katoa is back fit and firing for the Newtown Jets in the Intrust Super Premiership.
Ahead of the Jets' clash with the Wyong Roos at Henson Park for ISP NSW Magic Round, the 20-year-old sensation is primed for a big performance having well and truly shrugged off his injury concerns.
"I feel confident, really confident back playing footy," Katoa said.
"Recovery's gone good. [The jaw] healed up pretty quick ... I was a bit worried about what was going to happen after the [NRL] game and how my season was going to go after – I wasn't too worried about the injury."
Based off his current form, it won't be long before Katoa receives another crack at first grade. The prolific try-scorer has touched down four times in four matches since his return in round six of the ISP.
However, Katoa isn't allowing himself to look too far ahead, instead choosing to focus on his role at the Jets.
"[My goal] for now [is] to stay at Newtown and just wait for my turn again, and hopefully take an opportunity and go from there," he said.
On what will be a brilliant Saturday afternoon of rugby league with three consecutive ISP matches at Henson Park, Katoa said the Jets would use the four-match winning streak of their NRL counterparts Cronulla as inspiration.
"It's good to see the [NRL] boys going good, even seeing them [play so well while I'm] playing for Newton is really good."
Newtown is currently in 7th position on the ISP ladder and enters the match with last-placed Wyong off a solid last start victory.
Featuring a host of players with NRL squad experience, Katoa said the Jets lineup can trouble anyone on their day.
"We feel really good. We're confident in the team at Newtown."
The Magic Round action kicks off at Henson Park with the Mounties and Wentworthville at 11:00am, followed by the Dragons and Warriors at 1:00pm. Newtown and Wyong will close out the day at 3:00pm.
Aside from some fantastic footy on display, there will also be jumping castles, face painting, pass the ball and other activities to keep the kids entertained, as well as a range of food and beverages.
