MAX KING believes it will be a “special moment” when he gets to represent England at the World Cup.
Born-and-bred in Huddersfield, King left the UK for Australia as a seven-year-old child, returning sporadically through his teenage years.
With an Australian father (David King, who played for Huddersfield) and an English mother, King will don the England colours in the upcoming tournament.
But the 29-year-old feared that his chance had gone for good when he missed out on a call-up for the last World Cup in 2022.
“I was born and raised in Huddersfield. I can still remember being there as a seven-year-old but in between that I’ve been back and forth seeing my mum’s side of the family,” King said.
“I’ve been a couple of times as a teenager and young adult so I know a lot. I remember going to Leeds Rhinos games as my grandfather was a fan and my old boy was playing for the Huddersfield Giants most of his career.
“I’ve always supported the Rhinos and the Giants from afar and have kept in touch while I can. It’s a cool moment for me and a special moment for my family that I can represent my heritage.
“My parents have always been supportive – they would support me if I was playing at local third grade.
“I like to write goals on the wall. When me and my partner started dating, she came over and I had this big sticky note across from my bed and it was a goal to make it to the World Cup in England in 2022.
“It wasn’t to be and I thought from there that it wasn’t going to happen. Sometimes on the Australia side it can be harder because your loyalty and dedication to England gets questioned.”
King has credited national coach Brian McDermott for being the man to inspire the Canterbury Bulldogs prop to don the England shirt.
He explained: “It wasn’t until Brian McDermott gave me a call this year and asked me about how I felt about the opportunity. I was buzzing.
“When he called me, it took me by surprise. I wasn’t sure if that ship had sailed and my mindset wasn’t there. I didn’t even know there was a World Cup at the end of the year.
“That dream I had reignited but it didn’t take much. I got off the phone with him and I was excited and grateful to be here.
“I’m happy to wear the badge and represent myself, my heritage and my country.”
