Farrer player and Tamworth local Troy Martin was one of the standouts in Saturday’s GNA trials and won selection in the squad. Photo: Grant Robertson 061012GRB04
TROY Martin has overcome 12 months of injury disappointments to finish the footballing year with two successes.
The 17-year-old Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School student was part of the Farrer squad which won its University Shield Final at Shark Park, Cronulla last month.
On Saturday, Martin was one of a number of young hopefuls who turned out for the Greater Northern Academy trials at Scully Park.
Yesterday he was named in the GNA squad to work over the summer under head coach Peter Stevens.
Martin, who is in Year 12 at Farrer but studying via Pathways, has had a disjointed 12 months.
A right knee reconstruction affected last season before a hamstring injury reduced this season.
“The Uni Shield Final was my third game back,” he said.
“I didn’t get big minutes but it was a big thrill the Uni Shield. It would be great to win it again next year.”
Originally from Wee Waa, Martin started at Farrer in Year 7 when he was something of a soccer player.
“Everyone played league so I started playing too,” he said.
Last Saturday he also started the GNA trials at five-eighth, an unfamiliar position for the strongly-built teenager who prefers second row and lock.
“That was a bit different. The jersey was a bit tight,” he joked of his number six assignment.
However when switched to the second row he impressed with some strong running.
“I’m looking forward to the GNA stuff now. I’m not sure what it involves though.”
He will find out more when the new GNA squad meets in Tamworth for the first time on October 20. That will be their induction weekend.
