Twelve months ago Sea Eagles flyer Tom Trbojevic was headed to Auckland to show he could mix it with the big boys, but now he's out to ensure his spot in the NRL for Manly's Round 1 clash against the Bulldogs.
It didn't take the 19-year-old long to make his first grade debut following his maiden Nines berth last year, but with a very good chance of being named in the Sea Eagles No.5 jersey for Round 1, 2016, it has given him a whole new perspective on performing well.
Going on to score eight tries in nine games last season Trbojevic has already built himself a solid foundation to blossom under new Sea Eagles coach Trent Barrett.
"It's going to be a great experience and I really enjoyed it last year. I'm definitely embracing it differently, heading over last year I was a nervous little kid I guess but I've grown a fair bit from my experiences last year," Trbojevic said.
"It's the first real trial we'll get to impress the coaching staff so I'll go out there and do my best. I can't fault the way the club has been going, Trent has come in and has done an excellent job and we have all bought into what he have given us."
One thing Trbojevic has focused on during the pre-season is filling out his lanky frame for the season ahead.
Doing all he can for the betterment of his career, Trbojevic was unsure whether Peta Hiku's exit was a sign of faith in the Mona Vale junior to perform.
"Trent has told me what he wants from me and I guess I've taken that on and I've tried to improve my game as much as I can. I hope the club has faith in me and I'll be out to repay that," Trbojevic said.
"I've been working with Strength and Conditioning coach Dan Ferris as much as I can to try and put on some weight. It's tough to put weight on during the year so it's been good in the break to try and gain some muscle mass.
"I've only put on three or four kilos so it's going good so far."
Trbojevic also couldn't help but joke with reporters upon news of older brother Jake's promotion to captain of the Sea Eagles' Auckland Nines squad.
"It's a big honour for him and he'll be definitely looking to be a winner on the weekend. I think he'll go well, he likes ordering everyone around I guess," Trbojevic said.
"I'm not too sure how I'll go with that, I don't think I'll listen to him. But he should do well."
