The gifted 20-year-old produced an outstanding debut season in the NRL this year, playing 23 consecutive matches after debuting against the Raiders in round three and getting a taste of final football to cap his first year in the top grade.

 ‘‘I played 23 games straight so I was pretty stoked with that. Not many players do that in their rookie season,” Aitken said.

‘‘It was a dream come true and to be out there every week was a privilege.

‘‘To experience finals footy gave me a taste of that and gave me a bit of hunger to get there again.

‘‘It’s going to be a big year this year and I’m looking to improve on it next year.

‘‘I’ve set some higher goals this year, I want to try and crack the rep scene so that’s my mission.

Now preparing for his second season in the tope grade, Aitken said he will have to lift to a new level next year but said second year syndrome is a myth.

‘‘I don’t think it’s a real thing,’’ Aitken said.

‘‘I think it’s something you have to take control of every year whether it’s second year, third year, fourth year...you’ve got to keep improving.

‘‘Obviously the players know who you are now so they’re going to do video on you each week.

‘‘You’ve got to find ways to overcome that and play a bit different each week to keep them guessing.

‘‘You’re always trying to better yourself as a player no matter who long you’ve been in first grade.’’