Talented young hooker Jared Haywood has praised Wests Tigers captain Api Koroisau for his mentorship in helping to get his NRL career off to a promising start.
“Api is the GOAT of deception. It is something in my game that I'm always trying to look to improve on,’’ Haywood said.
“Throughout the pre-season, Api was a big help. I’m just trying to learn how he manipulates the ruck, manipulates the markers, and stuff like that.
“He’s one of those leaders that's very approachable, so I can go to him at any point and just take whatever I need.
“He’s been a massive part of my game.”
Koroisau would have been more than pleased with what he has seen in the 19-year-old in his two NRL games.
Haywood showed plenty of creativity and flair in his NRL debut against the Warriors at Campbelltown Sports Stadium a fortnight ago in front of a huge amount of family and friends.
His impressive performance saw Coach Benji Marshall start him at hooker in last week’s loss to the Bulldogs before sharing the role with Koroisau in the Fijian international's return from injury.
Although Haywood has yet to enjoy the sweet taste of an NRL victory, it's done little to damper his enthusiasm of playing on the big stage.
“It’s been everything you dream of as a young kid, with all the family and friends that (have) come and supported me. It’s something I’m very grateful for,’’ Haywood said.
“’I’m learning so much and trying to take lessons from every game I play in order to improve.
“Getting that (NRL) debut was probably the best moment, one of the best moments of my life. It’s been pretty cool.”
A former half-back who came through the St Marys Club in the Penrith juniors, Haywood found a home at the Balmain Tigers, where he successfully came through the grades.
“I just want to pay them (Balmain) back for the opportunity they gave me,'' Haywood said.
“I grew up as a half and when I arrived at the Tigers, I knew I had to change positions for an opportunity.
“Defensively, it’s been tougher and I have had to put a lot more work into my game at hooker, but I feel I’ve gone to another level now playing in the nine jersey.”
You'd have to be 'Api' with that, to say the least!
Watch the full interview with Jared here on Wests Tigers YouTube
