IF the Muswellbrook Eagles are set to fly high this season then rising star Callan Cridland will likely play a huge part.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 19-year-old is returning to the world game having spent several years playing rugby league, but has not missed a beat upon his return.
In just four preseason matches he has used his electrifying speed to pick up fourteen goals and help the all-ages side to a victory in each match.
Cridland will be playing in the D grade competition once season proper begins which is likely to be more challenging, but his form and confidence will be on a high for round one.
"It's felt pretty good, my brother decided this year that he was going to come back as well so I wanted to play with him," he said.
"Personally I want to better myself and my skills and for the team I'd like to make the grand final."
The two coaches that have overseen his preseason have heaped praised on the prodigious talent and detailed his many strengths.
"He has natural talent so it's not surprising to us older guys [to see him do well], his pace gives him an edge over anyone who defends him," said D grade manager Clinton Lanesbury.
"I think he will be odds on favourite for the golden boot."
All-ages coach and club vice-president Brodern Adam-Smith was also quick to give Cridland accolades.
"Cal is keen to learn and he is naturally talented at any sport he plays," he said.
"His speed plays a big part in that but he is picking up the game so fast, he has the potential to be a great footballer.
"His preseason has been phenomenal, he has scored 14 goals in our four matches, that's a crazy strike rate."
With such high expectations there will inevitably be a bit of pressure on the striker going into the season, but if he's anything like his idol Lionel Messi, he'll thrive on it.
This is part three of four in our Muswellbrook men's Rising Stars series, tune in for more on the Rams' up and comers over the next week.