Will Genia was the man who kept Nick Frisby out of a starting spot for his first four Super Rugby seasons, but the veteran has become his successor’s number one supporter.
Genia has been sending Frisby advice and messages of support, since late last year, as Frisby has worked his way towards a possible Wallabies debut.
And his greatest advice to Frisby? Back yourself.
It’s a tip that Frisby has taken on fully this season, making the Queensland halfback role his own and forcing his way into Test calculations.
“From day one he’s always said to me the same thing, just back yourself,” he said.
“He’s been at the highest level for a number of years and he’s still doing it now so that’s the main thing I’ve taken from him - do what’s got you here and back yourself and keep doing it.”
As one of two halfbacks named in Michael Cheika’s 33-man Test squad, Frisby might be entitled to feel like he is on the verge of a Test debut, but the Reds scrumhalf isn’t counting his chickens.
Frisby and Nick Phipps were the two nines named in the squad, but Brumbies rookie Joe Powell is also training with the squad in Brisbane this week, keeping the two Nicks on their toes.
“Joey Powell’s come down to train with the squad this week so not getting too far ahead of myself,” he said.
“No team’s been named yet so I’ll just get stuck in this week.”
While he’s not going the early crow when it comes his selection, Frisby did admit a Suncorp Stadium debut would be extra special, coming at a venue that has been his home ground for the entirety of his Super Rugby career.
“It’d be pretty special moment to be able to make your Test debut at the home stadium in front of family and friends,” he said.
“They’ve been a part of the journey the whole way through and supported you every step of the way.
“So to get a chance to play in front of them fo rthe first time would be something special.”
Frisby comes into the camp off his best season of Super Rugby and it’s a line of form he hopes to continue into Tests.
“I’ve gotten a lot of confidence out of this year,” he said.
“It’s been massive for me to be able to play week in, week out and secure a starting spot was a goal of mine at the start of the year.
“So, to be able to have done that was pleasing.”
