Cowboys rake Reuben Cotter beats injury curse to land debut
Luckless Cowboys hooker Reuben Cotter will finally make his NRL debut after a luckless run of injuries to begin his career, with the young gun admitting the setbacks took their toll at times.
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North Queensland debutant Reuben Cotter says he’s ready to “rip in” this weekend after sitting on the sidelines for three years with back-to-back knee injuries.
The 20-year-old hooker has worked tirelessly to make his way back to rugby league after suffering two consecutive anterior-cruciate ligament (ACL) knee injuries, ruling him out of the 2016, 2017 and 2018 seasons.
Cotter’s recovery time lasted longer than most because of his young age and re-injuring the same left knee.
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The Sarina Crocodiles junior admitted he had battled through some tough times but his mindset was always on achieving his childhood dream of playing in the NRL.
And on Tuesday afternoon, that dream came true.
Cowboys coach Paul Green has named the youngster in the No.14 jersey for their clash with Manly at 1300Smiles Stadium this weekend.
It comes after injuries continue to cruel North Queensland’s chances this season, with Jordan Kahu the latest casualty, sidelined with a shoulder injury.
Cotter said he was stunned when he received the call-up following a successful start to the season with the Mackay Cutters in the Intrust Super Cup.
“Greeny pulled me aside on Tuesday and let me know the good news,” he said.
“I didn’t know what to do. I think I shook his hand like three times. Happy, nervous sort of reaction.
“I rang my dad first and he was pretty emotional. I got through my first sentence and he broke down. Obviously my mum and my partner as well were over the moon for me.
“My mindset during my injury was always on getting back to playing footy.
“There were times where it was really tough. Everyone has those tough times going through something like this. I knew if I just stuck to it and putting in the hard work, it would give me the best chance to get back to the field.”
Green said he was impressed with Cotter’s return from injury in the Intrust Super Cup so far this season.
“He’s built into the year nicely,” Green said.
“If he does happen to get a start, it’s a terrific story given what he’s been through with a couple of knee surgeries that he’s had.
“It’s a credit to the kid.”
Cotter said he was excited to be given the opportunity this weekend to make his NRL debut, against a “tough” Manly pack.
“I’m pretty excited for Saturday night but I do daresay that the nerves will creep in closer to game day but I’m looking forward to it,” Cotter said.
“They’ll be a tough side.
“Their forward pack will be tough.
“For myself, this is a pretty big goal. Hopefully I can stick around and play a few more.”
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