NORTHERN Pride centre Rod Jensen has likened being in camp with Country to the professional environment he thrived on during his NRL career with the North Queensland Cowboys.
Jensen, along with fellow Pride teammates Mark Cantoni, Joel Reithmuller and Tom Humble, has been in Brisbane this week training with Country ahead of today’s annual clash against City in Ipswich.
The 30-year-old returned to the Queensland Cup this season after two years playing for Huddersfield in the English Super League.
But Jensen said the past week had stirred memories of his NRL days.
"It’s really good when you get players of a high calibre training together," he said.
"Everybody’s really clued into the sessions and combining well.
"It’s a bit strange. When I went away overseas the professionalism wasn’t there but getting back to play for Country, in what is meant to be second tier, it’s really refreshing to see all these young players so committed and so
professional.
"It actually makes you miss the NRL a bit but I’m very happy with what I’m doing now."
Jensen should be.
The Tableland product has been arguably the Pride’s most potent attacking weapon playing in the centres this season.
With Queensland Residents guernseys up for grabs on Saturday, Jensen has plenty of motivation to continue his good form.
"I put this game down on my calendar at the start of the season and playing for Queensland was something I wanted to be in contention for and I am," he said.
"I’ve been pretty happy with my personal form. I haven’t missed a game yet – touch wood.
"I think everybody’s form (at the Pride) has been pretty good. We’ve put ourselves in a strong position and can build some good momentum ahead of the finals."
Jensen looks set to start today’s match at centre but his cameo at hooker during the Pride’s loss against the Sunshine Coast last week has given the Country coaching staff plenty of options.
"They tried me at a few different positions at training so we’ll see what happens," Jensen said.
Today’s City versus Country clash will be shown on the ABC at 2pm.
