The blooding of impact forward John Bryant has been one of the upbeat spin-offs to the progress of the Queensland Reds in 2024.
Recently turned 21, the Souths product has featured in five of the six games with cameos off the bench.
His initiation to Super Rugby Pacific has given the Reds the chance to develop a back-up to the settled starting backrow of Fraser McReight, Harry Wilson and Liam Wright.
Versatility is a big plus in any player’s make-up and the 100kg Bryant is happy to embrace it.
“Whether I play No.8, 6 or 7, I don’t mind. I just want to be in amongst it,” Bryant said.
“It’s been awesome to be involved on a regular basis. It’s a good boost confidence-wise knowing that the coaches want me.
“Liam, Harry and Fraser are all guys I go to for answers on questions I might have to improve my game smarts.”
“Playing Super Rugby is definitely a big step up. My first carry felt like I was running into a brick wall but you get used to it. Probably the biggest thing I’ve learnt is how much it helps to get your mental and physical prep done properly before a game.”
Bryant gave the strong hint he was ready last November when he made several strong carries in his Queensland debut against Japan’s Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights at Ballymore Stadium.
Assistant coaches Zane Hilton and Jonathan Fisher are both clear communicators when it comes to the demands at set piece or breakdown time.
“Both are really direct with what they are after from the forwards,” Bryant said.
“As a backrower, I obviously have a big focus on the breakdown. ‘Fish’ is pretty clear there…it’s scorch the earth and destroy what is in front of you to make sure there is a good delivery of ball.”
Bryant’s rugby roots trace to his first game in Under-8s at Souths and his seasons playing at St Laurence’s College where Brendan Cannon, Neil Betts, Nev Cottrell and Laurie Lawrence took their own early steps before becoming Wallabies.
“I feel I’ve been on a great pathway through school, my club and the Reds Academy and dad’s always supported me,” Bryant said.
Having former Wallaby lock Garrick Morgan as his coach at Souths has added an extra layer.
“’Be aggressive, be dominant in your carries and tackling’ is a theme from Garrick. I’ve been playing with the Magpies since Under-8s. It’s my club,” Bryant said.
Bryant and utility back Taj Annan will play on Saturday when Souths launch their 2024 StoreLocal Hospital Cup season against Norths at Chipsy Wood Oval.
