Manly veteran Jake Trbojevic has admitted he “took for granted” playing first grade alongside his brother in their early years together.
The 31-year-old was the first of the Trbojevic siblings to crack the NRL, but was almost immediately taking the field alongside Tom not long after his debut.
Ben has since joined his two older brothers in the Sea Eagles side and earning a more regular spot in the team under Anthony Seibold last season.
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While the oldest of the Turbos can understand the significance of playing alongside his two younger brothers, that wasn’t always the case.
All three Trbojevic brothers pose for a photo with James Tedesco. Getty
“It’s very special,” Jake told Nine’s Marlee and Me.
“I think me and Tom were really lucky, we got to play with each other really young and it’s something that we probably took for granted.
“Tom debuted when it was my fifth game – but since Ben has come in and started playing, we realise how special it is to actually play alongside your brothers.
“It kind of inspires you to want to keep playing well.”
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Growing up on the Northern Beaches and supporting the Sea Eagles their entire lives, it has been no surprise to see all three Trbojevic brothers become fan-favourites.
Behind the scenes and on the field, Jake is still the leader – but he admits sometimes he needs his younger siblings to keep him “calm” during the grind of week-to-week footy.
Jake Trbojevic is one of the NRL’s true heart and soul players. Jason McCawley via Getty Images
“You’re always their brother first, care about them and want them to do well,” he said.
“I’m not sure it’s changed too much over the years. Footy gives you a lot of stress and sometimes they are helping me honestly – they are calming me down.
“It’s been good for us and it’s brought us all closer together each week. You watch each other go through the ups and downs.
“It’s definitely something we don’t take for granted anymore.”
Manly will kick off their season against the Cowboys on Saturday night.
