But it was his first three that had got him there.

Austin, 15, lined up for the NSW Combined Independent Schools (CIS) under-15s team against Manly in a trial match for the upcoming 2009 Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League under-15 championships in Adelaide.

Austin, who normally plays rugby union, said he was looking forward to it and felt honoured to be given the opportunity to experience a new sport and get the chance to play in Adelaide.

“It is something new,” Austin said.

“I have never done it before and it will be a rush going to Adelaide.

“I feel lucky to be representing my school, the Hunter and my family.”

The Year 10 student at Hunter Valley Grammar School made the switch from rugby union to rugby league last month and after impressing selectors over a series of three matches he was chosen to represent NSW CIS.

Austin, who plays prop in both codes, said the main difference between the sports was the defensive patterns.

“Getting back the 10m is the main difference and the speed of the game,” Austin said.

The boy from Bolwarra Heights will line up against the Australian Capital Territory at Hindmarsh Stadium on Sunday and Queensland White on Monday before finals on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Austin normally plays rugby union for the Singleton Bulls and he is a NSW Country under-15s representative.