If you receive a State of Origin call-up after playing contact rugby league for just 12 months, there's a good chance you're doing something right.
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In the case of Orange Hawks' product Lilly Baker, she stood out to state selectors for more than one reason.
And while she possesses a plethora of talent that is destined to make an impact on the big stage, NSW Blues under-19s coach Alicia Hawke says it's her deceptively fast foot speed that will give Queensland nightmares during Friday's fixture at Queensland Country Bank Stadium.
Her position hasn't yet been confirmed, but Hawke is certain of one thing... Baker will wreak havoc up the guts.
"She [Baker] can play really good, eyes-up footy and is really dangerous with her footwork," Hawke said.
"Instead of just playing that bash-up style, she can use that deceptive footwork late at the line. She's definitely got a line-break in her."
Hawke has an array of compliments to give Baker, but still can't believe the sheer progression she's shown in such a short amount of time.
"She's so raw in her footy career but she's so so eager to learn and she's like a sponge at training," she said.
"She's so willing to learn and she's asking questions every step of the way. Her eagerness is great. She's not just here to fill a spot... she's going to make a huge impact throughout the game."
Baker's assessment on what she brings to the team is a little different to her coach's.
"The team is filled with lots of different personalities but I like to think that I'm funny and make people laugh," Baker said sarcastically.
Hawke supported Baker's claims, to an extent.
"She's funny but I don't think she's as funny as she thinks she is," Hawke laughed.
All jokes aside, Baker couldn't put into words how helpful these last few sessions have been and she feels as though she's tapping into new areas of the game.
"I knew how to tackle before I came here but the training has really helped me advance my skills," Baker said.
"I've also learned a lot about the role I need to play and what part of the field we need to get to for our halves to set up."
As for the scouting report on the Queensland side, Baker's been instructed to help limit second-phase footy.
"We really want to get up off the line at their key players and shut them down, and try to stop offloads," she said.
"It's also important for us to chop at their arm so they can't palm."
Lily won't be the only Baker at Queensland Country Bank Stadium on Friday as a convoy of her family is set to make the trip.
The under-19s match will raise the curtains for the opens. Baker's side will start at 5.15pm.
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