Battler hangs tough Ingram plays through pain to keep NRL dream alive
JAI Ingram has one goal in 2015 – to prolong his dream of an NRL career.
Ingram is the true definition of a rugby league journeyman.
An outstanding junior prospect, Ingram spent five years floating between the Cowboys, Storm, Dragons and Bulldogs systems before injuries cruelled his first chance at the big time.
Aged 20, Ingram decided to quit the sport and return to his home in Hervey Bay.
He completed his personal trainer qualifications and used the next two years to mend his battered body.
Then the league itch came again.
Ingram linked with the Norths Devils midway through last season and became an instant Intrust Super Cup sensation.
His slick line-running saw the back-rower score a train-and-trial deal with the Titans which led to a second-tier contract this season.
But just like it was before, Ingram’s run has been ruined by injuries.
He returned from an ankle complaint for Tweed Heads in the Intrust Super Cup last weekend and will start in the back-row for the Seagulls alongside Titans teammates Matt Robinson and Dave Taylor against Wynnum Manly at Piggabeen tomorrow.
And while an NRL debut may be unlikely this season, Ingram is desperate to prove his worth for another crack in 2016.
“It’s been a good year,” Ingram said.
“I’m trying to make the most of this year.
“My goal is to get re- signed. Footy is what I want to do for me and my family.
“I want to have plenty of kids so I want to be able to support my family.
“I just want to get through each game and do my best.
“If I can walk off the field knowing I did the right thing then I’ll be happy.”
Ingram will play through pain for the remainder of the season but a sore ankle won’t hold him back from doing his best to convince Titans coach Neil Henry he’s worthy of another shot.
“I’ve just got a big chunk of scar tissue which I keep tearing,” he said.
“I know it’s just that so I can keep soldiering on.
“It was my first pre-season in three years.
“The most challenging thing was staying in the battle.
“I had to keep working on my mental toughness. It’s a skill.”
The Seagulls’ season is all but over and they will rue a number of missing opportunities in 2015.
“The story of our season is simple,” coach Aaron Zimmerle said.
“For four tackles in every step we’re pretty good. Then whether it’s defensively or offensively we drop off.
“There’s millimetres in executing something well.
“We need to stay switched on and play every play.”
Burleigh Bears may welcome back Titans duo Kierran Moseley and Brad Tighe for tomorrow’s game against Souths Logan at Pizzey Park
Anthony Don will start on the wing for the Bears while Nathaniel Peteru will make his first appearance in the Intrust Super Cup.