There were a couple things Riley Murphy realised when he made the step up to the senior ranks with the Tamworth Thunderbolts.
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“I think the biggest difference from playing junior leagues for eight years and moving up into the state league is the physicality and competitiveness,” Murphy said.
It’s been a big step up but the 18-year-old is holding his own.
Murphy drew praise from coach John Ireland in the Thunderbolts last-start win against Hawkesbury.
The McCarthy student is also confident in his own ability. Confidence Murphy says is growing with each game.
“I think I’m staying aggressive offensively – and defensively – and looking to take shots when I can,” Murphy said.
“It’s also a learning experience, both from my coach John Ireland and my other teammates because they’ve been in the league for a lot longer. I’m enjoying it.”
Murphy said Chris Skilton has been one of those teammates who’s helped him.
“Chris Skilton has taught me a lot of things. Just talking to me during the games, giving me little inputs on how to get better and little things like that,” Murphy said.
Murphy said communication would be paramount on Saturday as the Thunderbolts take on the Newcastle Hunters at the Tamworth Sports Dome.
“We know they're [Hunters] a lot bigger than the other teams we’ve played this season, so that'll be pretty tough for us,” Murphy said.
“Especially defensively, we’re going have to work a lot harder and talk a lot.”
