Jetstar Gold Coast Titans managing director Michael Searle has rated Chris Walker’s comeback to rugby league as one of the proudest moments in his time as club boss.
In a major triumph for both Walker and the Jetstar Titans, the 29-year-old will play his first NRL match in 18 months at Skilled Park on Friday night after overcoming consecutive Achilles tendon injuries as well as off-field problems.
An emotional Searle, who worked tirelessly for eight years to have the Gold Coast granted re-entry into the NRL competition, said the thought of Walker putting on a Titans jersey again to take on the Bulldogs made him smile.
“I’ll have a very similar smile on my face as to the first time I saw Preston Campbell run out for us,’’ said Searle of Walker’s return.
“I think it’s one of those good stories. You hear lots of bad stories but that’s just one of true tenacity and determination to succeed.
“There are plenty of times I’m sure where he could have walked away with those two injuries and there were times before that we possibly could have walked away as well.
“It’s a good win for us and great recognition for Chris.
“He’s our inaugural try scorer – he scored that first try in the right corner at Suncorp Stadium against the Dragons.
“We’ve had lots of personal time together where we’ve had to work through things so it does feel good.
”It’s one of those things that I’m really proud of so it’ll be good to see him run out.’’
Jetstar Titans halfback Scott Prince remains in doubt for the clash with the Bulldogs with a minor hamstring strain but Searle said the club would give him until Friday evening to prove his fitness.
“He did a session this morning with the physiotherapist which went well,’’ said Searle.
“He’s probably still a 50-50 chance but the coaching staff are keen to give him every possible moment.
“I’m sure the club will take a view that we would be reluctant to risk him if he’s not 100 per cent.
“But he’ll be given every opportunity so we’re still hopeful he’ll be out there on Friday night.’’
No comments:
Post a Comment