TOMMY Makinson has been speaking about his “pretty surreal year” ahead of this Saturday’s trip to Harlequins RL.
The 19-year-old made his first team debut off the bench against Salford in February and to date has played 18 times for the club.
And in those games he’s shown himself to be a quality finisher too, with 10 tries and a goal for 42 points.
Not bad for someone who is still eligible for the Under 20s…
“It’s been pretty surreal for me this year,” he said. “I got on the bench against Salford and when Ade unfortunately got injured I got the chance and I’m happy with how it has been going for me.
“I have been playing in the 18s and 20s and it’s fair to say that Super League is a totally different level. The game is a lot quicker and the players a lot faster and stronger. I have had to adapt really quickly and learn from the players around me. It’s great to be involved.”
Makinson’s natural position is either centre or full back but like most started on the wing when he made his first team bow.
“I’m happy to play anywhere,” he continues, “but centre or full back are the positions I played growing up. But it’s been a good experience and the senior lads have been great and have helped me out.
“The wing position has definitely changed. It is more technical now and you have to do a lot more. You are defending high kicks and it is all very challenging. I just want to give it my best and enjoy it.
“We are confident heading into the playoffs. We know we can beat anyone. We have been there and thereabouts this year and lost by the odd try but we have a great squad from 1 to 29, great players, we are a great unit and are quietly confident we can do it.
“We know there are always things to improve on and we can step up another level heading into the playoffs. Wigan and Warrington are two good sides, but we are too.”
Round 27 will feature the State of Mind campaign aimed at raising mental awareness amongst players and fans – and Makinson acknoweldges is significance.
“We have been talking about the campaign and how important it is. I have been thrown in the first team and it can be difficult to adapt. But the senior players have been great and have helped me learn. On and off the field we are mates and they have your back. It’s important to have that support network and be able to talk if things aren’t right.”
