Tamborine Mountain rugby league talent Blake Marshall has capped off his Jamaican tour with a landmark achievement, becoming one of the youngest players to debut for the Canadian men’s national team.
The 17-year-old, who initially travelled to Jamaica to represent Canada in its first ever sanctioned Under-19s international match, was invited to also join the men’s side after impressing during training.
“Based off how I trained during the week, the coaches of the men’s team said, ‘Do you want to debut for the men’s team as well? We think you’d be able to handle it,’” he said.
Marshall, who attends The Southport School and plays for Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the Mal Meninga Cup, took on a leadership role in the Under-19s, helping guide less experienced teammates.
“Playing with boys that don’t have a massive range of experience in rugby league was a great opportunity to teach them some things, learn from the coaches and take on a bit of a captaincy role as well,” he said.
Pulling on the senior jersey was a particularly proud moment.
“It was a really awesome feeling not only for me, but to represent my mum at the highest level for Canadian Rugby League,” he said.
“To be the youngest ever in Canadian history to debut for the men’s was also a massive achievement.”
Marshall played the final 20 minutes on the wing and said the jump in intensity was significant, facing physically imposing Jamaican players, some with English Super League experience.
Outside of training, the squad stayed at a beachside resort where they had time to experience Jamaican culture.
Looking ahead, Marshall has been told his spot is his to keep.
“There’s a Scotland trip potentially in June next year and I’ve been told it’s my position until someone takes it,” he said.
