When former Cessnock coach Steve Kidd first laid eyes on Kerrod Holland two years ago he knew the kid was talented, but he didn’t see a future NRL player.
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Fast forward two years and Holland not only made his NRL debut, but he showcased his calmness under pressure to kick a conversion after the siren to hand Canterbury a 18-16 victory over Penrith at Pepper Stadium on Thursday night.
The performance announced the Singleton product to the rugby league world and created his new moniker, “the ice man.”
“I won't forget that one in a while mate, it's pretty special," Holland said after the win.
“Something you always think about as a young kid, especially in the park kicking goals by yourself. To get one on debut is outstanding.”
Kidd, who has since become assistant coach at Central, was one of numerous members of the Newcastle Rugby League community to praise Holland’s ascension on social media.
When asked whether he predicted Holland’s transformation to NRL match-winner, Kidd said: “From the moment he came here I knew he was going to be a good player, but I never thought he’d get this far this quick.
“The more we watched him train and saw his work ethic at Cessnock training, we thought he might get an opportunity somewhere and he did at the Knights. Then the Bulldogs jumped to pick him up. He’s a hard worker and would have earned his spot.”
Kidd said the confidence Holland displayed in taking the pressure conversion and in the post-match interview were also new-found traits.
“He probably wasn’t too confident when he first came to Cessnock,” he said. “He was pretty shy and probably had a few doubts about himself. I think he’s grown into it over the last few years and is more confident in his ability.”
The 23-year-old joined the Goannas initially as a halfback, but due to Joel Brown having a mortgage on the role, Kidd shifted him to fullback.
Holland quickly became arguably the top No.1 in the competition due to his kick returns and speed. His 15 tries and 112 points helped Cessnock qualify for the 2014 grand final, where they lost 22-8 to Wests.
After starting last season with Cessnock, Holland was drafted by the Knights reserve grade side where he became a permanent fixture in the centres by the time the team won the NSW Cup grand final.
Then last October Bulldogs coach Des Hasler offered Holland a two-year deal and the promise that they “don't recruit reserve-grade players.”
At the time of the Canterbury deal Holland was still working as an electrician with Novocastrian Electrical. Staff at the Heatherbrae-based business keenly watched the former sparkie’s debut.
Novocastrian Electrical managing director Gary Considine said he was not surprised that Holland handled his debut with aplomb.
“That’s his nature,” Considine said. “He would have wanted the ball.
“I know when Moses Mbye came back on, I thought they’d have given it to him, but I can understand with Kerrod because he’d want to have the kick.”