He's arguably Cronulla's most promising youngster in years, but Bronson Xerri says he wasn't even the best player in his own family.
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After being the subject of steady hype for the last 12 months, Xerri showcased his significant talents in his NRL debut during Saturday's gutsy loss to Parramatta.
The 18-year-old held his own as the injury-hit Sharks ran out of gas against the rejuvenated Eels.
He became an instant hit with fans across the country during the week when a hidden camera planted by the club captured the emotional moment he was told by coach John Morris he would make his debut.
The club also filmed him phoning his mum to inform her of his impending debut, to emphasise his joy.
Family was a common theme in the week leading up to his maiden first-grade appearance - including having to ask the club for 50 tickets for his extended tribe.
His brother Dylan also presented his jersey to him on game day.
Dylan Xerri was an exciting outside back who starred in the Sharks lower grades alongside the likes of Kyle Flanagan and Blayke Brailey before ankle injuries forced him into premature retirement.
Bronson said he idolised his brother, who was two years older, while growing up and wanted to make something of the opportunity in front of him because Dylan was robbed of the chance.
"I looked up to my brother, to be fair he was better than me coming through the ranks and then he just got unlucky with injuries and had to pull the pin," Bronson said.
Asked if he wanted to play for his brother, Bronson said: "That's definitely it. I was doing it for my family. My family was very proud of me."
Former coach Shane Flanagan had wanted to debut Xerri last year but was prevented from doing so because of the NRL's age restrictions.
And Morris said he had pushed first-choice centres and ex-Australian internationals Josh Morris and Josh Dugan all the way in the off-season.
Xerri didn't get many chances against Parramatta, but his pace and desperation to out-run Eels fullback Clint Gutherson to get to a loose ball and save a try spoke volumes about his potential.
"I just wanted to work hard for my teammates, I saw that ball, I saw Gutho sprinting for it, I wanted to get the ball back for the boys," Xerri said.
"It was a great experience and can't wait to earn my spot next week."
Australian Associated Press
