Penrith Panthers star J’maine Hopgood has enjoyed a hero’s homecoming

After a whirlwind year in which he made his NRL debut and was part of the extended squad in the grand final, Hervey Bay’s Penrith Panthers star has paid a visit to his home town

He made his debut for the Penrith Panthers this year and was part of the extended squad that celebrated winning the NRL grand final.

Now J’maine Hopgood has returned home to celebrate the festive season with his family in Hervey Bay.

Speaking to the Chronicle, the NRL star and former Hervey Bay Seagulls player said it had been an “awesome year”, playing five first grade matches and seeing his team claim the premiership.

“It’s good to get home, it’s always good to come back,” he said.

J’maine Hopgood

Hopgood has spent much of his time catching up with family and friends.

His New Year’s Eve celebrations are set to be low-key.

The Panthers return to training next week and he is wary of Covid and the possibility of bringing it into camp.

As Covid numbers continue to grow in the community, he is confident the NRL will be able to manage the players and keep the competition going in 2022.

Hopgood said after two years of dealing with Covid, the players were used to being flexible.

Hervey Bay's J'maine Hopgood celebrates his NRL debut for the Penrith Panthers on May 16, 2021.

The talented player made his debut for the Panthers in May, receiving his jersey and becoming the 600th first grade player for the Panthers on his birthday.

He came off the bench, playing in the second row and at lock.

Learning the news was both cause for celebration and an emotional moment for the young man.

His father, Dale Hopgood, died of a heart attack after playing a game of rugby league for the Hervey Bay Seagulls on March 24, 2007.

He was just 39.

Hopgood, who was working as a carpenter while working to achieve his dream of playing in the NRL, told the Chronicle last year he was sure his father would be incredibly proud of his achievements.