Thanks to Misty Eagle for posting this at SeN
4 September 2007
| By Mitchell Dale
http://www.thedaily.com.au/news/2007/sep/04/page-link-manly/
It wasnt long ago that Sunshine Coast Falcons FOGS Cup centre Mark Page was starting to think his chance at the big time had passed him by.
While his mates were getting offers from NRL clubs, the same interest wasnt being showed in the versatile Page.
And although he is still a teenager, Page started to worry he might be getting too old for a chance with an NRL club. Washed-up before he was 20.
But all that changed earlier this year when Manly Sea Eagles were on the Coast for their NRL trial against Melbourne.
Sea Eagles recruitment officer, former Test legend Noel Cleal, spotted Page playing for the Falcons and made a few inquiries to Falcons colts coach Brad Henderson.
The rest is history.
Page is now on the verge of being offered a start with Manly for next years inaugural National Under-20 competition.
While an official offer has not come through, the Sea Eagles have let Page know they are very keen on getting him down to the Northern Beaches.
Page is now planning to put his university studies on hold and have a fair dinkum crack at footy next year. Ive been talking to Noel Cleal throughout the year and Im planning on moving down there at the end of the year for pre-season training, Page said. I havent worked out all the details with (Manly) yet, but its pretty exciting at the moment.
Im in my second year at QUT studying secondary teaching, but I will probably take a year off next year so I can concentrate on footy
Out-going Falcons coach Des Allen gave Page his first shot at FOGS Cup as an 18-year-old last season.
Allen says Page wont let anyone down if he does sign with Manly.
He can play. But the best part about Mark is his attitude and willingness to learn, Allen said.
As a footballer, Allen describes Page as the all-round package.
One thing he can do is tackle, Allen said. But he also has very good footwork and has good ball skills. Hopefully he goes as well as (former Falcon) big Paul Ivan.
From what I have heard hes gone very well playing Jersey Flegg for Parramatta.
