The coach said if the rules had allowed, teenage centre Bronson Xerri might just have played in the NRL last year as a 17-year-old.
In recognising his obviously potential, with Xerri representing both NSW Origin 18's and 20's in 2018, the Sharks signed the local junior to a full time contract, putting him well and truly on track to make his debut in the top grade in 2019.
A standout in the premiership-winning Sharks Jersey Flegg side last year, Xerri was given a taste of senior footy with the Newtown Jets, and after scoring a hattrick of tries in his open-age debut, has since been earmarked for a long and successful NRL career.
From the Aquinas Colts club in Menai, Xerri has come through the junior development system at the Sharks, to where he has graduated to become a member of the full time NRL training group.
At just a tick under 100kgs, Xerri has size, clever footwork and a good turn of speed and with the departure of Jesse Ramien and Edrick Lee, he will be looking for a strong off season to push his claims and win a place in the Sharks 17 come round one next year.
In this instalment in the 'Under the Surface' series, Sharks Media has a bit of fun with the Xerri, finding out just what makes him tick. We learn he has some dance moves to go with his footwork on the field, he is fan of Geordie Shore and his favourite cheat meal is the infamous 'snack pack'.
But we also get serious in asking just where he would like his football to go next year, as we continue to get to know your 2019 Sharks NRL squad.
Bronson Xerri Born – September 10, 2000, Sydney
Position – Centre
Height – 188cm
Weight – 99kgs
NRL games – Yet to play NRL
