A youngster chosen to represent Australia in American football has decided to go with rugby league after signing a trial contract with Parramatta.
Jai Camilleri, a powerful running back and linebacker in American football, was recently named MVP at the national schoolboy gridiron championships after starring for Queensland and chosen in the Australian merit team.
But league has always been the 18-year-old hooker's first love and when the Eels offered him a trial, he didn't hesitate.
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"I've enjoyed combining league and NFL but knew eventually I would have to pick one or the other," Camilleri told Wide World of Sports.
"The two codes complement each other well and playing both has been great for my fitness.
"But now I'm with the Eels I am going to put all my energy into that.
"I finished school at Wavell High in Brisbane a few months ago and have made the big move down to Sydney.
"I hope to play SG Ball and then Flegg Cup next year – playing against 21-year-olds would be great for my skill set."
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The Eels have helped Camilleri get a job as a teacher's aide for kids with special needs and he is working hard establishing himself for life after football.
And will he ever follow the path of several league players to try his hand in the NFL?
"You never say never but right now my dream is to play NRL," this mature teenager said.
"If one day the chance comes up to go to the USA … who knows … you never say never."
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