Doug Hewitt returns from AIS European tour
Friday, 30 December 2011 06:31
By Sam Debenham - Australia might set the standard in international rugby league but there is plenty to like about the game in Europe, according to Bathurst talent Doug Hewitt, who has recently returned from a European tour with the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) squad.The Australian team played five Tests' during their trip, two against French junior sides, along with games against Wales, England and a combined Welsh-English side.
Hewitt took part in four of the matches, having been rested for what was their only defeat of the trip (against the French under 17s).
He was man of the match against the French 19s and the English Academy team, helping the AIS to a thrilling 22-20 win in the latter of the two contests.
It was a perfect preparation for a huge 2012 in which he will line up with the Penrith Panthers Toyota Cup side.
"I really didn't know what to expect going over there, but the standard of footy was good. The style of the games really played into the hands of the halves, so that suited me," he said.
"It was physical footy and very fast, so it was enjoyable from my point of view.
"The England Academy game was probably the toughest, so to get man of the match in that game was pretty pleasing.
"I guess the surprise came in the France under 19s game, more than the games in England, because France are well behind the English in senior international footy. The structure and the quality of the players hits you by surprise.
"It was so physical. If you didn't step up you couldn't compete."
Hewitt was one of the senior members of the squad, which was composed mostly of players who are lining up for SG Ball (under 18s) teams in the coming year.
"There are a few who were 18 and turning 19 next year like me, though, and I'm sure I'll catch them around the traps. The whole squad were good blokes and very easy to get along with," he said.
Having attended a two-day training camp with Penrith upon his return, Hewitt is now enjoying a break until January 9, at which point he will head into more or less full-time preparation for the coming season.
A handful of trial matches will decide whether he makes the cut on a full-time basis.
"It is a bit nerve-racking knowing what's coming with the training, especially over Christmas, as you sit back and have a big feed and a few beers. It will get pretty tough," he said.
"We've got some early trial games and they start to trim the squad from there so hopefully I train well and find some good form early on."