From trying out at talent ID camp to Origin
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It wasn't that long ago Brydie Parker was sending off emails to the NRL enquiring about how she could start a journey in rugby league.
Two years later and Parker is now receiving more than her fair share in return in a story of growth and persistence.
Parker is one of 10 fresh faces vying for a spot in the NSW side looking to defend their recent title success against Queensland in the Harvey Norman State of Origin clash on Friday night.
It's a remarkable step-up for the 21-year-old, who was the success story out of the NRL's first women's talent identification day on the Gold Coast in 2018.
The Muswellbrook local stood out from most to earn a contract with the Sydney Roosters for their inaugural season – the only player in a group of more than 150 who took part in the day.
"I remember I needed some more information around how much it was going to cost so it all happened from there," Parker told NRL.com.
Match: Maroons v Sky Blues
Round 1 -
home Team
Maroons
away Team
Sky Blues
Venue: Sunshine Coast Stadium, Sunshine Coast
"I reached out to the Women's Rugby League Instagram page and got all the information. It's been a whirlwind and exciting journey to be on, from taking part in the talent ID to tournaments and now in Origin."
Parker was in her home town Muswellbrook when NSW defended the Origin trophy in front of 10,515 spectators at North Sydney Oval last year.
The realisation she could potentially be part of Andrew Patmore's final 17 is not something that is yet to sink in.
Regardless of whether she gets on the field, Parker is happy to bide her time and be part of the conversations as she's done so throughout her last two seasons at the Roosters.
"We're all training as if we're playing. We're all doing the exact same thing and are doing the same job," Parker said.
"It's great to be working hard and his idea behind it is if you work the hardest you'll get the spot.
"I didn't think I'd be involved in it but I'm happy with the year I had, it's such an honour to be part of this squad.
"I think it's been my biggest year so far with how I've played and I've felt really comfortable coming into the camp and am lucky to be around a group of girls who are so helpful."
The NSW squad have spent the past fortnight in the Sunshine State as part of their 14-day quarantine, bringing their motivation levels to retain the shield to an all-time high.
"It's definitely a motivator for us to get the win on their home turf," Parker said.
"I think the big thing for us is the combinations. There are girls playing positions they never have before at this level so it's important for us that we've had the extra time to prepare."
