Adam Clune: Accidental hero of St George Illawarra Dragons

It’s remarkable this rookie is even playing NRL let alone making his presence felt for the St George Illawarra side.

Adam Clune of the Dragons has beaten his own path to the NRL. Picture: Mark Kolbe

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Adam Clune never doubted he could crack the NRL but he did wonder at times if he would.

The poster boy for not giving up on a dream - no matter the obstacles thrown your way - Clune is now enjoying his journey with the St George Illawarra Dragons after making his long-awaited debut in June.

But it’s a debut that could have just as easily never happened.

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At 25, Clune’s career had stalled due to a string of injuries including a left side groin reconstruction, a sport hernia, a dislocated elbow, right side groin reconstruction, a grade-three MCL tear and broken thumb.

Adam Clune has gone from strength to strength since making his debut.

“Last year was the first time I was able to play more than 15 games. I played 22. It was crucial for me to get consistency,” said the Albion Park-Oak Flats product.

That consistency lead to a Dragons contract and finally his NRL debut - with a broken nose.

“I broke it on the Tuesday before the Monday game so fortunately I had enough time,” he said

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“There was no way I was going to let a broken nose stop me from making my debut.

“The debut was very special. I didn’t imagine having it this early. I was just hoping to have a debut at sometime during the season.”

Broken nose aside, Clune, now starring for the Dragons, said his body feels great.

“This is the best my body has felt in five years,” said Clune who has a degree in law and finance and is currently studying French with great mate Tristan Sailor.

Clune said there were times when he wondered if he should give up on his goal of playing in the NRL due to his long list of injuries.

“Before the right reconstruction I was just running at training and I knew I would need another reconstruction. I wondered is it worth it, would my body hold up for me to even give footy a chance,” he said.

Adam Clune has a degree and is learning French.

“Without a doubt it was the hardest thing overcoming that hurdle.

“I just love the game and want to get better.

“I got tunnel vision to get back out there, my love for the game, wanting to be back around the team.

“I never wanted to stop chasing the dream.”

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