WITH one door closed on the path to an NRL career, another has burst open for Tumut young gun Zac Masters.
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A month short of his 19th birthday, Masters has been headhunted by the Canberra Raiders for the remainder of the Holden Cup season.
Canberra under-20 coach Brett White called Masters a month ago and “invited” the highly talented back rower to considering joining the Raiders.
Only a day after playing for Tumut in the 30-all draw with Cootamundra at Twickenham on Sunday, Masters has now packed his bags for the big move to the national capital.
For Masters, the chance to get a foothold at the Raiders gives him a second shot at forging an NRL career.
Early this year, Master was recruited by the Parramatta Eels, only to walk away from the club.
“I was down at Parramatta in the off-season and was meant to be there for two years,” Masters recalled
“As it turned out I wasn’t enjoying it, and I came home to Tumut to play some local footy.”
Now two months into the Group Nine premiership, Masters has made a slashing impact for the beleaguered Blues – and grabbed the attention of the Raiders.’d
Masters is adamant the lifestyle in Sydney was a major reason behind his scuttled move to the Eels.
“Definitely,” Masters said.
“I really think Canberra is a better option.
“It’s a lot closer to home and feels more like home.
“I’ve got family over there and I’ll actually be living with my uncle Michael Battenally.”
Masters, who will start training with the Raiders this week, believes the atmosphere in Canberra will suit him.
“I’ve been over to have a look and I really liked it,” he said.
“I just can’t pass up an opportunity to get a second chance.”
Despite being drafted into the Raiders system, Masters knows there are “no guarantees”.
“I’m only signed for the rest of this year,” he said.
“After that I’ll look at my options, but I definitely like to stay at Canberra.”
With his eyes wide open, the powerful forward recognises it is unlikely he will be selected to play against Manly at GIO Stadium on Friday night.
“Hopefully I might make it onto the bench the following week perhaps (against Brisbane),” he said.
Tumut president Dan Roddy says the Blues are thrilled for masters.
“Zac has been one of the most consistent players this season, and will be sorely missed,” Roddy said.
“We wish him all the best with the move, and know that his dedication and hard work will take him a long way.”
Significantly, the struggling Blues will farewell two forwards this week.
Ruddy also revealed front rower Jett Hobbs has decided to leave the club.
“Jett is looking at a new opportunity to play in Sydney, where he is living and working and has settled down with his partner,” Roddy said.
“The burden of trying to juggle playing, coaching commitments for minor league and commuting from Sydney each week was not sustainable.
“Jett goes with our best wishes.”