After turning heads during his his first year at the South Sydney Rabbitohs, Adam Doueihi is planning an even more eye-catching 2018 by donning the Red and Green in the NRL arena.
Not many would have heard of the 19-year-old prodigy at the beginning of 2017. After progressing from the NYC to the ISP with the North Sydney Bears within a matter of months, Doueihi continued his meteoric rise.
The dynamic half finished off the year as a key fixture in the back-line of Lebanon’s Rugby League World Cup side and there is no doubt Doueihi is filled with confidence heading into the Grand Old Club’s 110th season.
Playing alongside Rabbitohs teammate Robbie Farah, who captained the Cedars to their first finals series in a World Cup, Doueihi looked back fondly on his career-changing experience.
“It was an amazing tournament,” said Doueihi.
“To be alongside boys like Mitch Moses and Tim Mannah and some of the senior boys in the squad it was good fun, and to have the support of the Lebanese community behind us, it was really enjoyable and the boys really appreciated it.”
Doueihi's World Cup exploits increased his stock dramatically after covering a number of positions on the field during Lebanon's campaign. The young talent has relished bringing his new found experience to the Rabbitohs training paddock.
“The boys have all been digging in and it’s been tough but it’s been enjoyable. The boys are digging in and we’re ready for a big season ahead,” he said.
“It’s been great. The boys have been welcoming for me. It’s my first full year at the club and it’s been good so far, and there should be good times ahead.”
Despite playing out in the centres during the World Cup, Doueihi proved that he is a dangerous commodity anywhere on the field, improving with each match he played.
Doueihi could very well find himself in a jersey sooner than expected. With the Rabbitohs clash against English Super League side Wigan and the Charity Shield looming, it could be a great opportunity for the Cedars international to obtain some valuable minutes.
While the halves remain his priority, he says that he is more than happy to put the team first if that means he can live out his dream of playing in the NRL.
“I’m happy to play wherever Seibs wants me to play, I’m happy to play wherever,” Doueihi added.
“Half is my preferred position, but wherever the coach wants me to play, I’m happy to play.”
Adam Doueihi“It should be fun. If I’m selected for either of the two games I’ll definitely put my best foot forward in front of the coaches.”
When it comes to personal goals for the 2018 season, Doueihi is willing to continue his time with the North Sydney Bears to eventually earn that prized Rabbitohs jersey, which is a testament to one of the Clubs’ most talented youngsters.
“[I want to] just play consistent footy,” said Doueihi.
“I'll start in NSW Cup probably and play some consistent footy there, and then hopefully progress my way into the first grade squad.”
