Toby Sexton is set to don the No. 7 jersey once more for the Bulldogs this season, yet his prospects beyond this year remain uncertain, especially with one of the game’s brightest young talents lurking in the background.
The playmaker had a standout year with Canterbury last season, steering the team to its first finals berth in eight arduous years.
Teaming up effectively with Matt Burton, Sexton established himself as the club’s primary halfback under coach Cameron Ciraldo.
Sadly, their campaign ended in heartbreak with a tense defeat to Manly in the opening week of the finals, played before a passionate crowd at Accor Stadium.
In an interview with Wide World of Sports, the 23-year-old conceded that some moments from that match lingered in his thoughts prior to the entire club viewing it together.
Toby Sexton during the 2024 season. Getty
“Initially, I viewed it the following day, but it was more from an emotional perspective,” Sexton shared.
“I was analysing various aspects of the game, thinking about what I could have improved.
“When we reviewed the game recently, I gleaned several lessons from it, particularly regarding how to close out crucial matches. It’s definitely a lesson I’ll value.
“Although it doesn’t alleviate the disappointment … we are keen to return to that level again.”
Canterbury achieved an impressive record of 11 wins from 15 matches with Sexton in the halves, and he notched his highest number of try assists in a season, tallying 12.
While his journey didn’t begin seamlessly, Sexton is hopeful he’s gained the confidence of Ciraldo and the coaching team to secure his position.
“It was a pivotal year for me,” he reflected.
“I kicked off the season in the NSW Cup, and although that wasn’t my preferred play, it afforded me the chance to hone my skills without the added pressure.
“I was fortunate to join a well-performing team and enjoy the rewards of that success.
“I am hopeful I’ve secured my place moving forward and can prove that I’m a genuine first grader.”
In the immediate future, there’s little doubt that Sexton will team up with Burton in 2025.
His game management has allowed the former Panthers premiership player to run more freely and have a greater impact for the Dogs.
However, the long-term outlook for Sexton is less certain.
Mitchell Woods, the teenager who previously had both AFL and rugby union vying for his signature, has now integrated into the top 30 roster, having only recently finished high school and showing signs of potential stardom.
Mitchell Woods is already part of the main NRL squad. NSWRL
Sexton experienced a similar trajectory after exiting junior footy, making his debut for the Gold Coast Titans at 20, following significant acclaim in the lower grades.
“He’s a fantastic young player and shares many traits with what I had when I first broke into first grade,” Sexton commented about Woods.
“I encountered similar expectations coming through. The key is to pace oneself and avoid unrealistic expectations early in one’s career.
“You need to learn to take things slow and relish the experience, transitioning straight from school into a first-grade program. Not many youngsters have that opportunity – he possesses a great mindset and is poised to be an excellent player for years to come.
“He’s an eager learner, always searching for ways to better himself. He’s faced some injury challenges early on, but he’s dedicated to watching footage and studying his performance.”
“He’s bound to be a top player, and the club is fortunate to count him among its ranks.”
Woods is contracted until the end of 2027, but Sexton’s future remains in limbo as he is not yet signed beyond this year.
Toby Sexton is thriving with the Bulldogs. Getty
While it is expected that Woods will eventually take over the halfback role – perhaps even sooner than anticipated – Sexton expresses his contentment at Belmore.
“I won’t delve into that – it’s in my manager’s hands, and it’s something he will oversee. Right now, I’m focused on my footy,” he remarked about his future in the NRL.
“I have a passion for this club and what it represents, the community and our loyal supporters who rally behind us, along with the fantastic playing group and coaching staff.
“All of this contributes to a truly enjoyable atmosphere.”
Canterbury will face their long-standing rivals St George Illawarra in the opening round on March 8.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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