Experienced middle forward Nathan Brown is determined to revive his NRL career at the Sea Eagles.
Signed to a train and trial contract, Brown brings close to 150 games of NRL experience, having played in a Grand Final for Parramatta (2022) and State of Origin for NSW (2020).
We caught up with 'Browny' to see how he has settled into life at Manly.
Q: Nathan, why did Manly appeal as the next chapter in your career?
“I just wanted to come to a successful club that has got a lot of history and a proud legacy behind it that will give me the best opportunity to play my best footy. Meeting (Coach) Anthony Seibold on that first day gave me a clear picture of what he needed me to do, and where I'm at. It’s why I chose Manly. I’m still only 30 years old. The body feels good and I've got plenty to give."
Q: It must be nice to have a few familiar faces here with you at Manly?
“It makes it a lot easier. The likes of ‘Woodsy’ and ‘Brooksy’, I played with at the Wests Tigers when we first started. I had Jaxson Paulo and 'Lodgey' at the Roosters this year. I have played with Jake Trbojevic in Origin. All of the boys have been really welcoming as has the entire club. It’s been awesome.
Q: You are known for your aggression. Is that something you are conscious of in the heat of the battle. How do you keep that in line?
“All that comes with age and experience. All that over aggressiveness and over stepping the line thing was there back in the day, but I’ve played for a few years now and played a fair few games, so I'm feeling more settled. I think once you try too hard, that’s when you come undone. For me, it's just about being yourself, stick to being Nathan Brown."
Q: Who is Nathan Brown then. Describe him?
“Just a real competitor who doesn’t like losing. Someone who always wants to win and tries to be the best team-mate. Away from footy, I just try to stay humble with a family first attitude. Enjoy life for what it is. I got married in the off-season, and we have a baby on the way. Becoming a father is something I've always wanted to do. I'm so looking forward to it."
Q: As a new Manly player, what has the 'Eagle Hearts' program taught you about our proud history.
“It's all pretty much about hard work. Whoever pulls on the maroon and white jersey means you have got a job to do, just as the past players left their own legacy. We have to build the future, to come together as a group, and really wear that Manly jersey with pride because there has been some great players who have played for this club."
Q: Tell us about your previous experiences at 4 Pines Park in front of the Manly faithful?
"Being an opposition player, it was never an easy game coming to Brookvale. You certainly feel, see, and hear the passion of the Manly fans. Because of who I am, I was always paying like a $1.01 (laughs) to get sprayed on the sideline. This was probably the field where I got sprayed the most. When I played here this year for the Roosters, we were up in the game, but the Manly boys came home strong on the back of a very vocal home crowd. I remember getting pumped 54-0 here with Parramatta in 2018 on a Sunday afternoon when it was about 40 degrees. The fans certainly let you know you are here, that's for sure. Hopefully, they will now get behind me. I may even get a few cheers."
Q: Competition for spots brings out the best in team-mates. What is your take on our forward pack for 2024?
“There are some really, big boys. Big and mobile. Very skillful. They all want to work hard for each other which is what you want as a forward pack, running hard and tackling hard. It’s a good opportunity for us to go to that next level as we have got a very good pack. I can't wait to rip in for the Sea Eagles."
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