LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Jacob Preston, nearing his 50th match for the Canterbury Bulldogs, credits a meeting with Phil Gould at Jobel's Cafe in Belmore for convincing him to join the club.
Since arriving in 2023, Preston has been a key player for the Bulldogs, helping them climb from the bottom of the NRL ladder to playing in the NRL Finals and currently remaining undefeated under coach Cameron Ciraldo.
Preston's hard work and determination have earned him the Dr George Peponis Medal in his rookie season and made him a fan favorite.
At just 23 years old, Preston is continuing to improve and has even been mentioned as a potential option for the NSW Blues in the State of Origin series.
Despite his success with the Bulldogs, Preston's rugby league journey could have taken a different path.
He could have ended up playing for the Sydney Roosters instead of Canterbury.
However, a meeting with Gould changed his mind and ultimately led him to the Bulldogs.
Gould's influence and vision for the club resonated with Preston, leading him to make the move to Belmore.
Preston's decision to join the Bulldogs has paid off, as he has played a significant role in the team's recent success.
Under Ciraldo's leadership, the Bulldogs have been on an upward trajectory, with Preston playing a crucial role in their rise.
His strong work ethic and contributions on both offense and defense have not gone unnoticed, earning him recognition both on and off the field.
As Preston approaches his 50th match for the Bulldogs, he reflects on how a chance meeting with Gould at Jobel's Cafe changed the course of his career.
By choosing to join the Bulldogs, Preston has become a vital part of the team and has the potential to make an impact on the State of Origin stage.
His journey from meeting Gould at a cafe to becoming a key player for the Bulldogs is a testament to his talent and determination in the world of rugby league.