LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Bailey Biondi-Odo may have had his sights set on various goals for 2024, but the All Stars clash was not necessarily one of them.
According to a report from bulldogs.com.au, Biondi-Odo expressed his surprise when Indigenous All Stars coach Ron Griffiths called him to confirm his spot in the highly-anticipated February 16 match in Townsville.
This unexpected opportunity marks Biondi-Odo's first taste of representative football, a reward for his relentless dedication in overcoming a challenging 18-month period focused on rehabilitating a knee injury.
The match holds significant importance for Biondi-Odo and his family, as his Indigenous heritage through his mother and Torres Strait Islander descent through his father make it a truly special occasion.
Despite his young age of 22, Biondi-Odo made a remarkable impact for the Bulldogs in the 2021 season, making his NRL debut in Round 16 and going on to play 17 games until an unfortunate ACL rupture cut his season short.
Hailing from Cairns, Biondi-Odo not only had the assistance of his mother on the sidelines but also drew inspiration from her to make his way back onto the field.