Each and every year, a stand out few NRL players rise from the pack. They finally find that coach who inspires them, or that diet that enables peak performance, or that special something that sees them realize their potential.
In 2018, Valentine Holmes became a genuine superstar. The potential and talent had always been there, but the positional play and ball playing skill seemed to blossom, making Holmes one of the game's elite.
Damien Cook went from fringe first grader to the number one number nine in the game. All he needed was a coach that believed in him and let him play his natural game.
Latrell Mitchell pushed the who's who of centres aside in ascending to the position's top player. His fellow Rooster in Luke Keary ended the season as arguably the competition's form player.
We all know about the rise of Kalyn Ponga.
2017 saw Coen Hess graduate from decent forward to absolute wrecking ball. He now has a closet full of Origin jumpers and plenty more in the future. Tommy Turbo burst onto the scene in a big, big way.
So who will it be in 2019?
It's suuuuper early, and plenty can happen between now and the start of the season next year, but as it stands here are the top five players I expect to become genuine superstars in 2019.
For the point of this, I don't mean break out stars, or rookies to make names for themselves. I'm referring to first graders who will elevate into genuine superstar status.
3. Luke Brooks (Tigers):
Some will, perhaps rightfully, point out Brooks' coming of age in 2018. He was named Dally M Halfback of the Year and became the Tigers' number one.
I absolutely agree but he will benefit most under the guidance of Michael McGuire. Adam Reynolds played his best footy under the premiership winning coach, and Brooks will improve again in 2019.
He is now the undisputed lead play-maker for the Tigers and is now able to call the ball at any time. The return of Josh Reynolds will ease the pressure allowing him to guide his side around the park.
I expect a three-way shoot out for an Origin jersey between Nathan Cleary, Keary and Brooks to partner or even replace Maloney in 2019 for New South Wales.
Brooks will be 24 before his first game next year. He now has over 100 first grade games under his belt. This is the season.
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