He is one of the new kids on the block at the Gold Coast Titans pre-season and former Newcastle Knights junior Jaron Purcell is planning on hanging around as long as he can.
Purcell made the trip up the highway from the Newcastle Knights system in late 2022 and joined the Tweed Seagulls which included a train and trial opportunity with the Titans.
"It has been good, moving from Newcastle, it has been similar (as a city)," Purcell said.
"The training has been different though, doing a lot of different stuff, which is great.
"I was full-time last year with Newcastle, so that was a great experience and then I took the chance to move up here.
After spending seven years in the Newcastle systems, the backrower decided it was time to challenge himself to take the next step in his career.
"I have been at Newcastle since I was 15 years old, coming through the grades, and felt like I need a little changeup to benefit my footy," he said.
"Learning is the biggest thing.
"Being around new guys and new coaching staff and putting my best foot forward in the trial to showcase my skill set is what I want to do."
Purcell is eager to join the Tweed Seagulls in the Hostplus Cup but also has his goals set higher.
"I have a few goals that I want to achieve.
"Get a full time spot up here and get my debut up here is the main goal that I am chasing," he said.
"It is obviously very similar in the pre-season and everyone has goals that you are trying to chase.
"Trying to win that premiership.
"The training is pretty similar in the fact that both pre-season are tough.
"Of my role (with Tweed) I am not too sure just yet, but I obviously want to get out there and play good footy and take every opportunity that comes with Tweed and the Titans."
With the Titans first trial squad named this Tuesday, Purcell is a name to keep an eye on with his hunger and desire to make him a notable force should he get the chance to pull on the club colours.
