http://www.news.com.au/sport/nrl/in...543144012?sv=25a009deb596c280aec53a2ffff4b621
Intrust Super Cup grand final: Rod Griffin creates history
ROD Griffin is rugby leagues ultimate journeyman.
The Ipswich Jets big bopper will create Intrust Super Cup history against Townsville on Sundays when he becomes the first player in the competitions history to play in grand finals for three different clubs.
The 28-year-old made his debut for Wynnum-Manly in 2005 before having a stint in the Wests Tigers NRL system.
He returned to Queensland and played in three consecutive finals for the Pride (2009-10) and Tweed Heads (2011) before linking with the Jets in 2013.
Its been a winding journey for Griffin, who was born in Papua New Guinea and moved to Australia as a three-year-old, but hes found a home at Ipswich.
The whole experience has been great, he said.
Everyones been together for the last few years.
Theres no really big names. Were all local boys and theres a good feeling through the club.
Griffin spent the pre-season training with the Broncos and still hasnt given up hope of an NRL career.
He played a handful of games with Todd Carney for the Atherton Roosters, his junior club, while contracted to the Pride and believes he has what it takes to make the step up.
Ive been around for a while, he said.
I wouldnt mind getting an NRL gig. Itd be good to get a full-time crack.
Im working (labourer) then going to training. Itd be nice to be able to just concentrate on footy.
Griffin has played 152 games in Queenslands top competition and his path to Ipswich started at the 2010 Four Nations tournament.
Griffin was representing the PNG Kumuls who had Ben and Shane Walker as assistant coaches.
The Walker brothers started as co-coaches of Ipswich in 2011 and wanted Griffin to lead their forward pack.
We tried to sign him straight away but Tweed poached him for two years, Ben said.
He brings an enormous amount of belief to the team, not only through the way he plays but also the presence he has on the field and around the group.
Hes definitely been one of the standout forwards in the competition.
He ran for 309m in 66 minutes a few weeks ago. Thats off the charts.
If youre producing those sorts of outputs youre obviously an elite player in this competition.
Its just craziness that someone doesnt pick him up. Hes ready-made to go straight into the NRL.
Hes one of those guys thats at the right age and ready to go.