Triston Reilly, contracted until the end of the 2024 season, was released by the Wests Tigers following Benji Marshall’s decision to revamp the club’s Top 30 roster.
Reilly’s departure, alongside Brandon Webster-Mansfield, surprised many at the end of last year, despite Reilly making his NRL debut and aiming for a place in the club’s outside back positions.
Months later, Reilly has reflected on his time with the Tigers, his release, and his return to rugby union with the NSW Waratahs.
“It all unfolded rapidly,” Reilly stated via The Sydney Morning Herald. “It was disappointing because I had set goals for another year in league and was confident of a stronger showing in ’24. But sometimes things don’t go as planned.”
“I returned home for a few weeks, and then DC [Waratahs coach Darren Coleman] contacted me expressing his interest in my return. I immediately seized the opportunity,” recounted Reilly.
Having competed for the Newcastle Knights and South Sydney Rabbitohs in underage competitions such as the Harold Matthews Cup and SG Ball Cup, Reilly made the switch to rugby union. After his tenure with the NSW Waratahs, he returned to rugby league and joined the Wests Tigers in 2022, initially on a train-and-trial contract.
Playing in the centres, Reilly made his NRL debut last season, demonstrating pace, strength, and skill in his three appearances for the club. This included scoring one try, breaking six tackles, making two line breaks, and averaging 71 running metres per game.
“It was always a childhood aspiration to pursue rugby league,” Reilly reflected. “When I was off contract and received interest from the Tigers, I wanted to give it a shot. Making my NRL debut was a significant milestone for me, having grown up playing league.”
“I had one of my most enjoyable years, despite the Tigers’ first-grade team only securing a few victories. However, I had ample playing opportunities, featuring in over 20 games,” Reilly continued.
“In previous years, I had split my time between the Tahs and Randwick, resulting in limited game time. But last year, I had a standout season, consistently playing week in and week out.”
“I undoubtedly believe that I have returned as a stronger player. The physicality and toughness of league have undoubtedly enhanced my game in rugby union,” Reilly concluded.
