RUGBY LEAGUE: STAR Coventry Bears utility back Mikey Russell has jetted off to Australia to feature for Ireland in the ongoing Rugby League World Cup.
His call up to Ireland’s national team follows his first season playing semi-pro rugby league since making the switch from Gaelic Football, which he took up after moving to Dublin from Sydney aged 12.
Russell was top try scorer for Bears throughout 2017, a stat which earned him the club’s Player of the Year award.
And his improvement is set to hit an all time high over the next month as he joins in training with seasoned full-time professionals from big clubs including Warrington, Wakefield, Leeds, and Wigan.
He told The Observer: “Training camp has been great so far, it took a few days to recover from the flight and get used to the heat but now we’re in a good place.
“It’s always good coming into camp and meeting the boys. To play alongside quality players is always a pleasure.
“Being with Coventry the previous season has massively helped me develop as a player. It’s given me confidence to play in different positions.
“But this is different. Being in a full-time environment is awesome but it’s tough on the body.
“The coaching staff look after us very well to make sure we’re able to perform for the next training session.
“Obviously the favourites are Australia but a few teams look strong.
“Tonga have a strong team and so do New Zealand. I’m confident that we’ll do well though.”
It appears the popular character isn’t missing the weather Coventry has to offer either.
He added: “I’m sitting on a bench in Australia in 32 degree heat, so at the moment I’m not missing the weather.
“But I am looking forward to getting back and seeing everyone and to being part of a great team at the Bears who will spring a few surprises next season.”
