Rapana on Kearney’s radar

NEW Zealand coach Stephen Kearney sums up in one word what impresses him most about Canberra Raiders winger Jordan Rapana—‘‘energy’’.

It’s that quality which has given the 26-year-old a huge chance to complete a remarkable transformation from park footballer, part-time barber and barman to a potential Test star.

Three years ago Rapana was pulling beers and cutting hair as he chased his football dream after six years away from the game fulfilling a Mormon mission and playing rugby union.

He even played a couple of games for Queanbeyan Blues in the local Canberra competition and nearly quit the game to become a police officer.

He practically begged former Raiders coach David Furner for an opportunity and Kearney confirmed he’s right in the selection mix for October’s clash with Australia in Perth and the Four Nations in England.

‘‘It’s the energy he brings to his role with the Raiders, he’s been really consistent the way he’s applied himself,’’ Kearney said.

‘‘For me, that’s been the most impressive part of his performances.

‘‘We were talking about him prior to the [mid-year] Test, he’d come on the selector’s [radar].

‘‘They [Raiders] are in a position where they could push a fair way into the semis, that will certainly make his chances [better].

‘‘He’s put himself in a position where he’ll certainly be in contention come the end of the year.

‘‘That’s the beauty about our game. If you’re prepared to really dig in, work hard and have a real want to make something of it, there’s always an opportunity and he’s shown that.’’

Not only has he grabbed his chance, a serious argument could be mounted for suggesting Rapana is frontrunner for Dally M winger of the year.

Before this round he lead the NRL for line breaks (17) and tackle busts (96) and is ninth in all-run metres (144 per game).

His damaging dummy half runs out of danger are a hallmark of his game and often leaves the right edge eager for work.

Rapana’s golden point try against Newcastle four weeks ago, where he chased down a missed Blake Austin field goal to score was the more dramatic moments of the NRL season.

It could also play a major role in convincing Kearney to hand him a first black and white jumper.