Carter Gordon admits he is still trying to process the past six weeks as he gets used to life as a starting Super Rugby flyhalf.
The 20-year-old made his debut off the bench for the Rebels during the final week of Super Rugby AU during their win over the Waratahs.
Watch every minute of Super Rugby Trans-Tasman on Stan Sport. Start your Free Sport Trial Now
Since then, Gordon has stepped into the starting position full-time, getting his first start in Round Two of Super Rugby Trans-Tasman against the Hurricanes.
He has since thrived against the New Zealand teams, with the highlight coming last Sunday as he produced a perfect chip-and-chase to set up Stacey Ili.
“I was really nervous. It was a dream come true and I’ve always wanted to play Super Rugby,” he told Rugby.com.au
“Getting the call up from Footy (Kevin Foote) that weekend was a surprise and I was over the moon. I didn’t really know what to say at the time other than thank you but I’m starting to take it with both hands and trying to play my best Rugby.
“Obviously playing the Kiwi teams, they like to play quick and that’s probably the biggest change (from club rugby) is the pace of play and the ball in-play time.”
Gordon made the move down to Victoria alongside younger brother Mason, with the pair constantly pushing each other.
Whilst he concedes the decision to move down from Queensland was tough to make as a 19-year-old, the opportunity to live out his dream was too much to turn down.
“It is tough moving away from family but when you're doing it for the thing you love, it isn’t too bad,” he said.
“We’ve always been together and played alongside each other. We’re both chasing the same goal so having him there as we push each other, you couldn’t ask for another.”
READ MORE:
ALB SHINES: 5 Things from TT
OPEN SLOTS: Wallabies spots still available
BOUNCEBACK: Brumbies defeat Hurricanes
As he continues his development, having the opportunity to work alongside Matt To'ouma has been invaluable.
For Gordon, receiving full support from To'ouma and the entire squad has been crucial in building confidence as he gets used to controlling and directing the team around the park.
"It’d take me a while to right them all down, he’s been instrumental for me,” he said on Toomua’s influence.
“He’s had that experience at Wallabies level and has helped me massively giving me little tips to work on. He’s just one of the boys so he has confidence in me and backing me the whole way.
“I’ve always had pretty good communication but I feel like it’s been a step for me that I’m bossing the likes of Pup (To'omua) and the boys around. It’s a step up and it was a challenge at the start especially being new to the team.
“However, I feel like now I’ve got the trust and the boys back me so I’m happy to get in there and tell the boys where they need to be.”
