He might not have got the fairytale ending he craved, but Caleb Garvie is about to fulfil every young footballer’s fantasy.
Only days after missing out on a Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League (Real NRL) grand final berth with his beloved Cessnock Goannas, the blockbusting teenager will start packing his bags for the nation’s capital.
He’ll link up with Ricky Stuart’s Canberra Raiders on a three-year deal, an amazing achievement for a front-rower so young.
But, first, Garvie will reflect on what could’ve been after the South Newcastle Lions stormed home to beat Cessnock 28-22 in the preliminary final at the weekend.
“It’s disappointing and it hurts… the guys never stopped trying,” he said.
“It would have been a great way to wrap up the season with the boys, winning a premiership, especially with Kori Barber retiring.
“However, I guess that’s footy.”
Garvie, who again showcased his untapped talent, went into the showdown knowing an NRL deal was “done and dusted”, which probably softened the blow of losing a little bit.
“Yeah, that was organised about three months ago,” he said.
“It’s pretty exciting for me, my partner, my family and my friends.
“And, everyone at the club has been so supportive, it makes it special.
“To be honest, it feels surreal.
“It’s definitely a dream come true.
“I’ve just put the hard work in, and all the little stuff together, to try and get there [in the NRL].
“So far, it’s paid off.
“But, I know there’s plenty more to do.”
A Goannas junior through and through, Garvie admitted he drew inspiration from previous Cessnock products, such as Andrew Johns, Matthew Johns, Bill Peden, Brodie Jones and current teammate Brayden Musgrove.
“I’ve been here since the age of five, playing under-6s and the whole way up,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“So, it’s very exciting to follow in those guys’ footsteps.
“There are definitely a few people who’ve made NRL (from Cessnock).
“They’re sort of role models at this club to push to that next level and try and make a name for yourself in the bigger league.
“However, Harry Siejka (captain-coach) has also been a big help.
“In fact, all the boys in first grade have played a role.
“They’ve obviously been around a bit more than me and they’ve got a bit more experience.
“So they’ve taught me a few things, which is great.”
It’s hard to forget that Garvie is only 18, with many props not reaching the peak of their powers until the mid-20s.
“I guess I’m lucky,” he said.
“Everyone keeps telling me you don’t normally mature as a front-rower until you’re 25 or 26.
“But, like I said, the boys around me have got lots of experience.
“So, it’s kind of helped me grow a bit faster than probably other players my age.
“I’ll head to Canberra and listen to, and learn, as much as I can.
“I will also work hard on maintaining my fitness and health, staying in good shape for football and just see what follows.
“I’m determined not to waste this opportunity.”
The Maitland Pickers will tackle Souths in the decider at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday 2 September.
Tooheys Newcastle Rugby League
2023 play-offs:
Preliminary final results
- Denton Engineering Cup: South Newcastle Lions d Cessnock Goannas 28-22
- Reserve grade: Western Suburbs Rosellas d Cessnock Goannas 22-8
- Under-19s: Western Suburbs Rosellas d Maitland Pickers 20-12
Grand final draw
Saturday 2 September
McDonald Jones Stadium
- Gates open: 9.45am
- Under-19s: 10.15am – Lakes United Seagulls v Western Suburbs Rosellas
- Reserve grade: Noon – Maitland Pickers v Western Suburbs Rosellas
- Denton Engineering Cup: 2pm – Maitland Pickers v South Newcastle Lions
For more sports stories:
- REAL NRL: Head Picker Lantry no stranger to success
- REAL NRL: Lions primed to pounce in GF, says Dureau
- REAL NRL: ‘Never-say-die’ Lions pip Goannas in a thriller
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