Matt McIlwrick says the chance to kick-start his career at the Sydney Roosters was too good to refuse, declaring he will "always be thankful" the Canberra Raiders put his best interests first.
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The utility began training this week at the Roosters, who view him as an ideal back-up hooker to Jake Friend, expected to miss up to 10 rounds next year due to shoulder surgery.
The Roosters' initial approach to Canberra to release McIlwrick or fellow hooker Glen Buttriss was turned down by Raiders coach Ricky Stuart, but the Roosters persisted after their one-year deal with Gold Coast Titans rake Matt Srama fell through.
After further discussions Stuart agreed to release McIlwrick from the final year of his deal and the 23-year-old is desperate to make the most of his unexpected opportunity at the 2013 premiers. It is understood the Cronulla Sharks had also declared interest in McIlwrick.
"[The Roosters initially] approached Ricky and asked if we [McIlwrick and Buttriss] were off contract, we were happy where we were at that stage," McIlwrick said.
"The opportunity didn't really present itself too much, but Friendy's surgery opened it up for me.
"I talked to Ricky what would be best for my career, there's a few people in front of me [at Canberra] in the positions I'm playing.
"He could have said no, why should we help out the Roosters?
"He was completely honest with me and wanted me to further my career and do well. I'll always be thankful for that.
"We thought it's probably good for my career I come here, and one day they might even see me again in the green."
McIlwrick revealed in September that he had confided in Stuart about his desire for a permanent switch to the back row.
He is training exclusively at hooker with the Roosters but now believes his ability to play dummy half and lock is an asset, despite earlier revealing: "Focusing on two positions was taking its toll."
He said: "I guess I am looking at a [Ryan] Hinchcliffe-type role who can cover lock and hooker, that would be the ultimate goal.
"It's more challenging learning two different spots, but at the end of the day it's going to benefit my career.
"The idea is to hopefully cover Friend while he's injured and depending on how I go, slot back to a bench spot or develop more at hooker.
"Training with blokes like [Roosters and former NSW halves] Mitchell Pearce and James Maloney has been unreal, I'm learning as much as I can.
"They've got great players. I was in a bit of awe when I got here, but they've been so welcoming."
McIlwrick, raised in Christchurch before moving to Canberra, is staying at Roosters recruitment boss Peter O'Sullivan's home near Coogee Beach until he finds his feet.
He's hoping the sea change proves just what the doctor ordered.
"A change of club sometimes brings out the best in players, and I'm enjoying the challenge."
