http://manly-daily.whereilive.com.au/sport/story/dark-horse-emerges-1/
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NRL Sea Eagles: Dark horse Brenton Lawrence sets the early pace at training
RUGBY LEAGUE
9 JAN 13 @ 01:47PM BY JON GEDDES
New Sea Eagles signing Brenton Lawrence training in the heat on Tuesday
AN unheralded 28-year-old forward who moved from the Gold Coast looking for an opportunity has emerged as a "smokey" for the Sea Eagles this NRL season.
Powerhouse prop Brenton Lawrence has shown he means business with his efforts during the club's tough pre-season training.
"Brenton Lawrence, for a big man he moves exceptionally well," said Sea Eagles speed coach Rubin Ruzicka.
The former Aussie Schoolboy lobbed at the beaches with no fanfare on a three-year deal after stints in Canberra and the Titans.
Sea Eagles coach Geoff Toovey said the club was looking for some more depth in the front row while Lawrence was searching for a starting role.
"I think they are a bit blessed up there at the Titans with frontrowers so he came down here to try and crack a full-time position in the side," he said.
"He is an impressive athlete and has been training the house down. I think he is going to have an impact this year with the team."
The start of the season can't come soon enough for Lawrence in his quest to play regular first grade.
"And to be honest that is from round one. I feel I am healthy and ready to go," Lawrence said.
"I'm looking forward to these trial games and having a good hit out with the boys and getting to know how they work together.
"So far everything has been going really well and I can't see why I wouldn't slot in comfortably."
Lawrence said the move to the peninsula has rejuvenated him.
"There are new opportunities here so you don't want to be slacking off," he said.
"You want to be your best and let the boys know you are capable."
Lawrence was signed by the Raiders aged 17. He played Jersey Flegg and in their Premier League side.
He then spent two years with the Titans where he made his NRL debut before his arrival at Manly.
In his short time at the Sea Eagles, Lawrence already appreciates the tight bond for which the club is renowned.
"Everyone is really close and helps you out with whatever you are doing at training on and off the field," he said.
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Sounds like BJ (apparently that is his nickname) will give it his all at Manly
Great photos of the Boys training on Page 25 10 Jan 2013 Edition
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