Illawarra fullback Adam Quinlan has labeled his return to the Dragons and Cutters set-up as a true blessing, and remains hopeful a premiership and possible state championship will attract interest from NRL clubs.
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The little maestro played a major part in leading the club to maiden premiership glory, having a hand in two of the Cutters four tries, as well as picking up the man of the match award.
The ever humble Quinlan was overwhelmed with the award and was quick to divert the attention to teammates and the playing group. The Cutters defied all odds being ranked heavy outsiders, knocking off Minor Premiers and competition favourites Mounties 21-20 at Pirtek Stadium on Sunday evening.
“I couldn’t be happier. The feeling is surreal” Quinlan said.
“To win a premiership for this club is unbelievable and I am just happy to be a part of it.”
Quinlan left the Dragons at the end of the season 2014 season after signing with the Parramatta Eels, where he then made a mid-season switch to English Super League club St Helens.
The Culburra Dolphins Junior admits he didn't know where he would end up before a life-line was handed to him by the Dragons prior to the start of the 2016 season.
Quinlan only featured in four games for the famous red v this season, as a replacement for NSW Origin fullback Josh Dugan, who suffered a broken jaw during the representative series.
"I didn't know where I was going to end up at the end of last year and I ended up back here.
"What a blessing it's been to be a part of such a great experience at such a great club.”
However, it’s with the Jason Demetriou coached Cutters were Quinlan continued to improve his game, and has been instilled with an infectious bout of confidence.
“JD (Demetriou) has been great for me and the whole team.
“He told me to back myself and play with confidence and I have really relished the opportunity, and I think it’s made me a better player.”
Quinlan has been informed that he is not a part of the clubs future plans, with young prospect Matt Dufty labeled as the future of the club in the number one jersey.
With an unclear future, Quinlan, 23, has age on his side and is hopeful his stand out season with the Cutters will assist in landing a contract elsewhere.
“I still don’t really know where I will end up for next season” Quinlan said.
“Hopefully being a part of this premiership winning side will attract some interest and I can land a gig somewhere. In saying that, we’ve still got one game to play this Sunday on the big stage, so that's the focus at the moment.”
