Super big ambition behind latest deal
NUKU Swerling will make his long-awaited debut for Bond University next year as he aims to follow the path to Super Rugby in 2020.
A talented back-rower, Swerling played for the Gold Coast Breakers in 2012 before heading to France for three years of professional rugby.
He returned to the Coast this year – shunning Brisbane interest to sign – but was unable to be cleared until the final round of the Queensland Premier Rugby regular season, in the lead-up to which he suffered a calf injury. Swerling will be in Bullsharks colours next year though as he pursues “unfinished business” in the form of a professional career in Australia.
“Coming back I have decided to try to achieve goals that I have had here but also be closer to family,” he said.
“I have got a bit of top footy experience and am wanting to bring that this season and show it out on the field.” The 25-year-old has already had a small chance to show off his ability with two National Rugby Championship games for Queensland Country.
The Queensland Reds have recently shown their willingness to reward form, with the likes of Jock Campbell and Harry Wilson impressing enough in the premier competition and NRC to earn Super Rugby contracts.
Swerling may be able to follow suit with a top-drawer 2019 for Bond and Queensland Country to set up an opportunity for the year after.
“Seeing that definitely puts a bit of belief in the pathway that premier rugby has so you can see that there is opportunity to get higher honours,” he said.
“It just depends on having a big season and letting all of the action on the field do the talking.”
Bullsharks director of rugby Sean Hedger said Swerling’s commitment to the club was exciting.
“He really wants to make a mark back in the Australian rugby community so we’re excited that he is going to be able to do that,” Hedger said.
Swerling added he could sense there was “something special” brewing at the Robina club, who narrowly missed finals this year.
COMING BACK I HAVE DECIDED TO TRY TO ACHIEVE GOALS THAT I HAVE HAD HERE NUKU SWERLING