THERE was never any doubt Cloncurry product Kierran Moseley would crack the big time and play in the NRL.
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But it might’ve come earlier than some expected, with the 20-year-old getting the call up to first grade duties with the Penrith Panthers this weekend.
Panthers starting hooker Kevin Kingston is injured and and deputy James Segeyaro is away on compassionate leave, opening the door for Moseley to make his NRL debut against the Manly Sea Eagles on Sunday.
Moseley has spent most of his time in the Panthers NSW Cup side this season, but the 20-year-old will realise his dreams of playing at the elite level when he runs onto Brookvale Oval.
His former Cloncurry coach Ronald Major says the entire Cloncurry community is proud of his achievement.
Major knows the sacrifices Moseley has made to fulfil his potential, but through sheer determination and commitment, will now see his dreams turn to reality.
"There were other boys Kierran's age that were just as talented as he was, but you could just see the determination he had in his eyes, that he wanted to make the big time," Major said.
"All through high school when Leanne Kum Sing (former coach) and I had him, when we went away to Winton, Townsville and Longreach to play, you could see he would always go that little bit further and wasn't going to give up till he achieved his dream."
"I'd be lying if I didn't say that he hasn't had tough time down in Sydney being away from home but with the solid leadership group at the club, it has made his time easier."
Moseley’s commitment and love of football is the hallmark of his success, and Major always knew Moseley could one day achieve his dream.
When Moseley was picked up by the Panthers in 2012, it was only a matter of time before he strutted his stuff on the big stage.
"Kierran had a really strong season in the under 20's last year and continued that this season in the NSW Cup, which he looked as a stepping stone to achieving his goal," Major said.
"He now gets his chance in first grade, to prove that he belongs, which is a testament to his unbelievable work ethic."
"He is not only making a name for himself but a name for Cloncurry, proving to all our other young league players that anything is possible."
Major was also a hooker in his playing days, and it allowed him to pass on his knowledge of the position during the years he had Moseley in his side.
"I played hooker when I was younger and I see a lot of myself in him, as we are both big talkers on the field and like to lead from the front," he said
“But unlike a lot of players from around here, he actually stuck with footy and went on with it.”
Kierran's mother Janelle Major and grandfather Kevin Major have jumped on a plane and will be at Brookvale when Moseley runs on to the field.
Ronald Major says it will be an emotional moment.
"All of us were overwhelmed when we found out the news, with plenty of people crying because of how proud they are of him," Major said.
"His grandfather Kevin Major has followed all his matches and is absolutely over the moon with excitement about watching him on Sunday."
"His old school (Cloncurry High) and the police station have even put signs up letting everyone know of his wonderful achievement."
“We hope this if the first of many matches he has in first grade, with plenty of family and friends excited to see him play.”
The match between the Panthers and Sea Eagles will be televised from 4pm Sunday on channel nine.