Dally M honour sets up rugged Tevaga
He was judged the best interchange player in the NRL last year, now Jazz Tevaga has set his sights on a regular starting spot at the Warriors.
Tevaga has been working hard throughout pre-season, determined to take the next step in his career, following a breakthrough 2018 campaign that saw his impact off the bench honoured at the Dally M Awards.
Well aware he still has areas to improve, the 23-year-old is not getting ahead of himself and is prepared to bide his time.
But he ultimately has designs on filling the No 13 jersey left vacant by Simon Mannering’s retirement, if not this year then the next.
‘‘That’s one of my goals, I want to get the 13 jersey, but I’ve still got a bit more work to do,’’ Tevaga said.
‘‘I’m happy as along as I’m in the 17. I’m still learning each day so I think I need a bit more time in that utility role before I step up, because it’s massive boots to fill. I’ll just keep improving and see when I can grab that jersey.’’
After 15 games in his first two years in first grade, the versatile Tevaga made the No 14 jersey his own in 2018.
He averaged nine hit-ups, 85 running metres and 37 tackles per game over his 20 appearances, playing above his weight as a middle forward, or occasionally backing-up Issac Luke at hooker.
As well as receiving the Dally M interchange player-of-the-year award, Tevaga signed a one-year extension at the Warriors, with an option for the 2020 season.
That was last year, though, and he is purely focused on what’s ahead. ‘‘It was good to get recognised for a breakout year for myself. I was pretty pleased with the season and the trophy was a bit of a bonus,’’ said Tevaga, who was due to have his first run of the year in yesterday’s trial against Wests Tigers.
‘‘I’m just trying to stay humble. This is a new season and it doesn’t mean anything. I was happy with the year but that’s behind me now.’’
Affectionately described as a ‘‘junk-yard dog’’ by coach Stephen Kearney after one particularly gutsy display against the Dragons last year, Tevaga’s hard-nosed approach has won him plenty of admirers amongst the Mt Smart faithful. He specialised in lifting the energy off the bench, exploiting tired defenders around the ruck and leading the line-speed on defence.
The Samoa international expects to start the season in a similar role, but Shaun Johnson’s departure may force an adjustment.
And ball-playing has been a major area of focus this off-season as Tevaga looks to assist Blake Green and his new halves partner.
‘‘With Shaun gone we need another ball player in the middle so I’ve been working on that, linking with ‘Greeny’ and whoever the half is going to be.’’