'Got a job to do here': Clark's team-first mentality with All Stars sacrifice

No one is more prouder of their Māori heritage than Erin Clark.

The chance to represent his rich family culture was a dream come true at the start of 2022, and after an impressive season last year, another opportunity beckoned for the 25-year-old with the upcoming All Stars clash in Rotorua.

But selflessly, the Manurewa Marlins junior has the Titans front of mind after recovering from minor knee surgery, forgoing his availability for selection in order to continue training with his teammates and secure a place in the starting 17 for Round 1.

"My number one this year is to focus on us here," Clark revealed.

"We've got a goal to firstly get to the finals and get to the GF, so I chose to stay here and train hard and keep gelling with the boys.

"It's definitely going to be hard [missing the All Stars]. I'm definitely proud of my culture and my family is really proud of it, but we've got a job to do here and I'm happy with my decision and I'll stick with it."

In firm contention to play at lock in 2023 after a formidable audition in that position for a month at the backend of last season, the 51-gamer doesn't have a preference to where he plays - with versatility to execute a role anywhere in the middle third - humbled to be considered for the season opener.

"I'm just grateful to be in the team," Clark said.

"I'm still pushing to be in the 17 going into Round 1. It's up to the coaches to see where I stand in that regard (of position).

"I just need to put my head down, learn as much as I can and hopefully that stuff will take care of itself."

His campaign to wear the No. 13 jersey is tipped to start next Sunday when the Titans face off against the Broncos at Sunshine Coast Stadium, with Clark a likely starter for the first trial of the season.