LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Sam Healey, a rookie for the NZ Warriors, experienced a whirlwind of emotions following his NRL debut last week.
While he celebrated achieving this milestone, he faced challenges adjusting to life in New Zealand, marking the first time at 22 that he had lived away from home.
The son of Sharks legend Mitch Healey, Sam wanted to carve out his own path rather than relying on his father's reputation.
Despite his father's role as assistant coach of the Sharks' Jersey Flegg team, Healey was keen to gain recognition for his individual talents and performances.
On the field, he had to quickly adapt as well; in his debut, he played the final 14 minutes of the match, helping the Warriors secure a tight 30-26 victory against the Cowboys, who had surged back into the game with three tries in rapid succession.