REDLANDS Rugby League Club player Jayden Clarkson is another step closer to his NRL dream following selection in the under 18 Australian Schoolboys team.
The Wavell State High School student is no stranger to the limelight, having played for Brisbane Broncos feeder side Wynnum-Manly in the state's top under 18 competition and for Queensland schoolboys at the National Championships this year.
Redlands Rugby League Club president Todd Flahey said selection in the Australian team was considered by many to be the pinnacle of rugby league achievement for a schoolboy, with several representatives going on to forge long and successful careers in first grade.
"If you look back and check out who has played Australian schoolboys and where they are now, it is the elite of the elite," he said.
"There's 17 kids out of the whole of Australia that get picked in this team and we've got a Redlands boy there.
"It's an outstanding achievement for such a humble kid."
Flahey said several NRL clubs, including four in Sydney, were looking to secure Clarkson's signature.
He said the lock's attitude and work ethic would make him an asset to any first grade side.
"He comes from a good background so it's outstanding to see someone that deserves a shot getting an opportunity," Flahey said.
"You couldn't pick a better role model than him. I know in ten years time after he's played a bit of first grade he's going to come back to our club and still treat it as his home.
Flahey said Clarkson's parents had made a difference in his career.
"The biggest thing is the support he has from his family," he said.
"The club and the old boys are also helping him out as much as they can.
"He's got the ability, he's got the nature, he's got every opportunity to play first grade.
"I can't wait to hang his first jersey in the club one day."
The Australian schoolboys alumni list includes rugby league greats like Paul Langmack, Greg Inglis and Brad Fittler.
The schoolboy team will play New Zealand in September.
