Euan Aitken debuted for the St George Illawarra Dragons last week, and enjoyed a 22-20 win over the Raiders. The 19-year-old is looking forward to being apart of the first home game in Wollongong against Manly on Saturday.
Dragons’ new addition, Euan Aitken, on the clash between Manly and Dragons this Saturday. @UOWTV #socialj pic.twitter.com/VW2ZkM5Z8u
— Mikayla Heinjus (@mikaylah896) March 26, 2015
The Dragon’s first home game of season will also be the 100th NRL encounter at WIN Stadium. Aitken is excited to play in front of what is expected to be a bumper crowd.
“Pre-season training helped me focus on developing my skills and has now allowed me to be right for this position in first grade,” Aitken said.
Named as left centre, Aitken said he will focus on working with his edge player and ball-carry. Aitken said he hopes to secure a permanent position in the senior side and help the Dragons to a successful season.
“I just want to continue playing good footy and providing for my team in every way I can,” Aitken said.
“I’ve never seen someone offer as much on debut as Euan Aitken,” Coach Paul McGregor said after Aitken’s debut in Canberra.
“His involvement from the very start was pure class. It was a great debut and he’s got a bright future.”
Aitken will use the praise from McGregor as motivation to perform this weekend and throughout the the season.
“It’s nice to get recognition from a person who’s been there, and done that,” he said.
“It’s a real confidence booster going into this next game.”
Pressures on and off the field have been slightly more demanding for Aitken.
“Balancing football, university and my personal life hasn’t proved too difficult. I try and keep as professional as possible and obviously keep my private life separate from my football career. I am happy to keep fans in the loop as it comes with the game,” he said.
“The transition from 20s to firsts was smooth and the guys are all friendly so hopefully I can cement my spot for the rest of the season.”
McGregor said Aitken has a bright future with Dragons.
Photo Credit: www.deviantart.com (W00den-Sp00n)