It seemed Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow was always destined to play for Queensland - the Queensland Reds, that is.
North Queensland Cowboys speedster Tabuai-Fidow will provide the Maroons a much needed shot in the arm when he runs out for his State of Origin debut in game three on the Gold Coast.
Yet the 19-year-old nicknamed "Hammer" could so easily have been playing rugby union for the Reds instead if not for a bout of homesickness.
Not so long ago Tabuai-Fidow was earmarked for Super Rugby honours after moving from his home town Cairns to the big smoke of the Queensland capital.
As a Brisbane Grammar scholarship holder, Tabuai-Fidow was firmly entrenched in the Reds junior academy.
"I was in the Reds pathway program when I was 15 in Brissie," the teenager said.
"But I got homesick. I made a choice to move back home and pursue league.
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"League was probably the sport I loved the most. My family grew up playing or watching it - there was a love for it growing up.
"I am happy with the decision I have made."
Reportedly signed by the Cowboys on an initial $2000 deal, the teenager is now preparing for his Origin debut after just 23 NRL games, so it's little wonder his choice of codes sits well with him.
"I was at home making dinner and got the call (from Paul Green)," he said.
"My heart was pumping, I was so nervous. It was an unreal feeling.
"I saw write-ups on social media (about his possible Origin call-up) but I didn't want it to get to my head but I had a feeling that I might get the call.
"I will be ready to go."
He faces a baptism of fire lining up in the centres against Maroons tormentor Tom Trbojevic, who has run amok to help NSW seal their third series win in four years and run up an imposing 76-6 scoreline across the two games.
It's a daunting task but nothing could wipe the smile off a starstruck Tabuai-Fidow's face after he was embraced by his new Queensland teammates at their Gold Coast camp this week.
"The way Tommy has been playing I will have to get up for it but I am keen," Tabuai-Fidow said.
"Rocking up to the game I will be pretty nervous but once I get out there I will back myself.
"I am super excited just to train with the boys. They have been welcoming - I am pretty keen to get out there.
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"And Greeny has confidence in me. I am just keen to get out there and do my job for Queensland."
While Trbojevic is a tough enough assignment, Tabuai-Fidow also had his eye on another potential challenge in Origin III.
Indeed the Gold Coast showdown may just provide an answer to a pub debate over just who is the NRL's fastest player - The Hammer or The Fox, Josh Addo-Carr.
"The last time I timed myself was 10.85 (seconds over 100m) but that was a couple of years ago," Tabuai-Fidow said.
"There is a bit of talk about who is faster. I am not too sure.
"He is pretty quick off the mark. If he does make a break I will get on my bike - we will wait and see."
