Just ask train-and-triallist Ethan Clark-Wood, who packed up his life and headed north to pursue his aspirations, that pursuing dreams always involves sacrifice.
The 24-year-old admits that the path hasn’t been without its challenges as his six-week stay at Titans HQ draws to a close, and that his family’s support has been crucial to his rugby league adventure.
Regarding his relocation to the Gold Coast, Clark-Wood told titans.com.au, “It was great at the start because my family came up from Sydney for a holiday in my first week, but when they left I really did struggle.”
“I missed my family a lot because I’m such a family person, but I was able to get used to it fast and truly love living up here.
“I was sidelined for seven weeks due to an injury I sustained midway through this year, which was incredibly difficult. However, I found that the psychological toll was more difficult than the injury itself.
“Being away from the squad and not playing took a toll on me because it was my first serious injury that kept me out for a long time.
“Having my friends and family at my side really helped me get through it.
“You really don’t realise how much you lean on them until something like that happens.”
Family was crucial to Clark-Wood’s next career move, which involved moving to St. George Illawarra to satisfy a personal goal of his grandfather, after he pursued his NRL dream at the Panthers as a youngster in Penrith.
“I played at Penrith from the age of 13 and it was really good playing all of my junior footy at the club but because of the talent out there it was hard to get an opportunity,” said the player.
“I grew up cheering for the Dragons because my grandfather barracked for the team, so moving there felt incredibly special.
“It was beneficial for him to see me wearing those hues because he passed away two years ago.
“After that, I got to see the Sydney Roosters, which was enjoyable as well since I felt like I had improved my game at every stage.
“I really found my feet there but coming to the Gold Coast definitely feels like the next step up.”
Following four years in the NSW Cup, the rising rookie’s 2025 decision to join the Tweed Seagulls represents a new beginning, with the move providing exciting new chances for development.
He remarked, “I’m excited for a change,”
“You become used to the ins and outs of each season after playing 53 games in the NSW Cup, but the Hostplus Cup will seem different.
“It’s been really good linking up with some of the Tweed boys here as well, so we can take those connections back to the club and hopefully find success in 2025.”