Jaxon Purdue, a promising 12-year-old fan during the Cowboys' 2017 grand final journey, now stands poised to contribute as a player in the 2023 finals series.
Despite the Cowboys' inconsistent performance this season, Purdue exudes confidence the team can recreate their remarkable run that year. They had barely made the top eight but triumphed through a series of tough matches, culminating in a clash with the formidable Melbourne Storm.
Following a disappointing 50-30 defeat to Canberra, North Queensland prepares to face Cronulla in an elimination final at Allianz Stadium. Purdue believes this match marks a turning point for the team, stating: "As a team, inside these four walls, we are very confident that we can go deep into this finals series."
He expressed that the team's confidence stems from their desire to prove critics wrong, declaring, "Everyone is writing us off and that is motivating us because we know we can win a premiership with this talented group."
Purdue's fond memories of past finals, including a 2022 qualifying match triumph over Cronulla, fuel his motivation. "In 2017 everyone had written them off, but they all showed up and made the grand final," he recalled.
This year, Purdue is set to transition to fullback, having demonstrated his versatility at centre, No.6, and halfback over the past two seasons. The Cowboys have secured his contract until 2030.
Reflecting on his performance, Purdue shared, "This year I felt like I could read the game a bit better in the halves than last year. Coming back into the centres, I am really excited to play my best footy."
Purdue acknowledges the need for strong teamwork, stating, "In a finals series you have got to play your best footy." The Cowboys aim to bring their A-game, echoing sentiments that many teams envy their current position.