IF HIS burning desire to play in the NRL had diminished, Tyson Andrews would more than likely be spending his days preparing for the 2016 Olympic Games.
The 24-year-old prop, who made hi
s first-grade debut last Friday off the bench against the Wests Tigers at Brookvale Oval, was a very promising boxer.
Andrews was the Australian heavyweight amateur champion in 2010, and good judges predicted he had a bright future in the ring. However, he had some unfinished business on the footy field that continued to eat away at him.
After turning out for Brisbane in 2008 and 2009 in the under-20s National Youth Competition, he was released by the Broncos.
It left Andrews in a state of shock as a career in rugby league was his ambition, occupying his thoughts for many years.
After reaching a crossroads, he decided to throw away the boxing gloves once and for all in 2011, linking with the Mackay Cutters in the Queensland Cup, where he spent three years honing his craft.
Andrews' direct approach in the engine room impressed Sea Eagles officials, who tabled a two-year deal.
"It has been a long-term goal of mine to play in the NRL, so to achieve that was great," he said.
"I love the club, it is tight-knit, everyone makes you feel welcome, they want to know your story.
"It creates a bond among the boys which is very strong, I wouldn't want to play for anyone else."
After getting a taste of the top grade, Andrews naturally wants more.
"The step up was full-on, the pace and physicality is very different to NSW Cup," he said.
"Hopefully a few more opportunities come my way. I absolutely loved it."
Andrews has been named in Luke Williamson's NSW Cup squad that will take on Mounties tomorrow in Liverpool from 3pm.
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Andrew Prentice
Manly Daily
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/northern-beaches/prop-feared-worst-after-broncos-exit/story-fngr8iii-1226992468895