Looking over the 254 names of those who have donned the red and blue for the Newcastle Knights and seeing his name a part of the group makes Tyler Randell unbelievably proud.
In fact for more than half of his life, his goal has been to be among that number.
This weekend the 22-year-old is set to run out at Hunter Stadium wearing the Club’s heritage jersey as part of the NRL’s Men of League Heritage Round.
The jersey, which is based on the original 1988 playing strip invokes the colourful and rich history the Club has had since its inception.
And as far as Newcastle Knights go, Randell epitomises what the Club is all about.
Born and raised in Scone, the heart of grassroots football in the region, the fire in his belly to become the best rugby league player he could be started when he took the field for his junior club, the Aberdeen Tigers.
At the age of 14 years-old, the aspiring league star moved from Scone to be a part of the Club’s junior development system in the Harold Matthews competition.
He played his way through the ranks until in 2014, he made his debut for the Club in Round 25, after playing in the NSW Cup game before it.
“To be able to make the transition through all the grades and end up playing first grade here is something that I will remember forever and is special,” he said.
“It meant a lot because I’ve been here since I was 14 when I moved down from Scone.
“I’m a local boy, even though I’m from two hours away, I’m still a local.
“To be able to play for your local team and every grade in the lead up to first grade, the jersey means a lot."
Each time he runs out into Hunter Stadium it’s a dream come true for the young hooker.
But this weekend will carry additional meaning as he reflects on the place he now holds in the Newcastle Knights' history.
“To have your name on the jersey, especially the heritage jersey is very good.”
The Men in League Heritage Round will be celebrated on Saturday at Hunter Stadium against the Gold Coast Titans with activities happening around the ground to coincide with the occasion.
To purchase the Newcastle Knights Heritage jersey, click HERE.
