"I was a bit shocked."
That was the reaction from Jamal Fogarty when he learnt that he was in the NRL All Stars Indigenous side.
The rise and rise of Jamal Fogarty over the last 12 months has been something to behold, so it should come as no surprise that the tireless worker will add another feather to his cap with selection in the All Stars match, but not for the man himself.
"I remember at the game last year at Cbus (Super Stadium), I actually went and my mate said 'you'll be playing that next year' and I told him to shut up because I didn't even have a contract, let alone to play in this game." Fogarty said.
As he discusses his selection, the pride is clear to see and like everything he does, Fogarty will be giving his all come February 20 at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.
"To be named in that side, I am a bit shocked and a bit nervous, but also very excited to jump in the camp.
"Especially on the cultural side of things, to educate myself and especially up in Townsville where there is a big Indigenous community up there - so very excited." Fogarty said.
Speaking to titans.com.au you can tell that representing his culture is something that is very important to Fogarty.
"For myself it is everything. Fogarty said.
"Putting our cultures on the calendar every year - for the Maori guys to get out in their communities and for us Indigenous guys to get out in our communities and share our knowledge and culture and also the football part of it as well.
"It is pretty crazy but it is going to be an awesome week.
"I let my partner know and she is super excited.
"I think she is actually more excited than me.
"It was only a short conversation but once I hung up I rang my Mum straight away and she is very excited and I text my sister and Dad while they are at work as well.
So what does Jamal Fogarty think when he reflects on the last year of his life and career?
"It's been crazy, even the last two years, we had a good group at Burleigh Bears and what we did there in 2019 (winning the Intrust Super Cup) and then playing a trial for Burleigh against the Titans, to getting a contract, to COVID break and then I was able to play 18 games of NRL and even got the captaincy at the end of the season while Kev (Proctor) was suspended.
"All of a sudden I'm in the All Stars, it is pretty crazy to think about."
One thing is for sure, Jamal Fogarty will be giving 100% wen he runs out for the Indigenous All Stars on February 20.
It's the only way he knows how.
