LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
Max King, a rookie for the NSW Blues, is recognized for his resilience and faith amid career-threatening challenges.
The deeply religious player is known for bringing his Bible into camp, reflecting his strong beliefs.
His inclusion in the team is a testament to his perseverance, a trait valued by NSW coach Laurie Daley.
King faced more than 18 months on the sidelines due to a ruptured Achilles sustained while playing for the Storm in 2020.
Post-surgery complications left him contemplating retirement until the Bulldogs offered him another chance.
He had previously overcome significant hurdles to reach the NRL, including multiple surgeries for supraventricular tachycardia, a heart condition discovered during his junior career at the Knights in 2016.
King's journey is also shaped by his family's legacy in rugby.
His father, David, played for the Gold Coast Seagulls, while his grandfather, Johnny King, is a Hall of Famer with seven premierships to his name at St.
George.
Born in Huddersfield, Max sought to represent England against the Kangaroos in the end-of-season Ashes series, supported by his English mother, Caroline, and his grandfather.
The story of Max King emphasizes perseverance, faith, and the influence of family in overcoming adversity to achieve success in professional sports.