Cronulla's Aiden Tolman says he wouldn’t have experienced the success he has enjoyed throughout his career if it weren’t for Craig Bellamy and the Melbourne Storm system.
Tolman, who is most known for his stint with Canterbury, will become the 43rd player in the history of the NRL to play 300 first-grade games when he lines up against Newcastle on Friday night.
While he'll be remembered as a Bulldog, Tolman started with the Storm as a 19-year-old and says coach Craig Bellamy gave him the foundation to have a long career.
“It really set up my career being at Melbourne,” Tolman said on SEN 1170 Breakfast.
“They teach you how to be a first-grade player and teach you things you need to put in place to be a professional athlete.
“Not just training but off the field as well.
“Going down to a program that taught me all those things laid the foundation to play as many games as I have.
“I’m very grateful and it’s definitely the reason why I’ve gone so long in the NRL and it’s why I’m still here today.”
The 33-year-old begun his career in Melbourne and played the majority of his games at the Belmore before joining the Sharks last season.
Tolman says that whilst the occasion will be incredibly special and emotional, he does not want his milestone to distract the Sharks from securing the two points against a surprising Knights outfit.
“It is going to be hard keeping a lid on it come game day,” Tolman said.
“Once you cross that white line, it’ll be business as usual.
“After the game, we can sit back and celebrate and hopefully with a good win.
“We’re coming up against a good Newcastle squad so it’s going to be a tough match.
“I’m looking forward to it.”