Reds flyhalf Spencer Jeans is embracing the chance to work under Brad Thorn as he begins his first pre-season with the club.
Jeans signed a one-year deal in September after an impressive season with Bond University.
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The 20-year-old, whose family resides from New Zealand, admitted the prospect to work under All Blacks legend Thorn was a dream come true.
“My family is from New Zealand so I’m a little bit starstruck seeing him and they obviously know who he is growing up,” he told media.
“To be in his environment with him, he has plenty of knowledge and we respect him a lot.
“Whatever he says it’s pretty positive and we like to hear what he says and learn from it.”
Jeans will likely compete with Kalani Thomas for the reserve scrumhalf position as Tate McDermott continues his breakout International season with the Wallabies.
Whilst competition is tight within the squad, the Gold Coast product was identified as a standout from their three-day army camp as he embraces his opportunity.
“It’s really enjoyable, I’m loving it,” he said on the experience.
“It’s a welcoming group and I love the environment that we are in. It’s a real positive environment to get in, get your work done and everyone’s willing to help you out there so I’ve been loving it.”
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With the Reds training on the Gold Coast, it was a homecoming for Jeans as they trained just minutes from where he grew up, making his name at The Southport School alongside young guns Zane Nonggorr, George Blake and Wilson Blyth.
The 20-year-old still works behind the bar at the Northcliffe Surf Club and felt right at home training at the Royal Pines Resort.
“Born and raised here so I love it. Any chance I get to come down here I’ll take it,” he added.
“It’s good to train down here with the boys, it’s (a) great environment.
“…I love coming back here, it’s always refreshing to come back and see everyone, even driving past the old school, it’s good memories.”
