Jeremy Marshall-King is in the midst of a career year in 2023, and he opened up on the influence of his late dad, his relationship with half-brother Benji and the meteoric rise of the Dolphins.
A lot of good judges rate the former Bulldog as the buy of the year as the Dolphins sit in fifth after 10 rounds, thanks largely to Marshall-King’s play.
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But before he arrived in Redcliffe, the Dolphins rake had to endure some tough challenges.
In October 2019, Marshall-King’s father Shane died in a car crash.
At the time, Jeremy was playing in the Rugby League World Cup Nines for New Zealand.
“It was about 11pm at night and my brother gave me the news,” Marshall-King told Jake Duke.
“It was hard to take on but I kept playing the Nines because I knew he would have wanted me to keep playing.
“It was a sad moment for my family … I’m glad I get to keep playing and represent his King name.
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“He was always giving me those hard talks but wanted the best for me and I can’t thank him enough for what he’s done.
“He’s always next to me in spirit and on that field and was the best father you could ask for.”
Marshall-King also spoke about the influence of his half-brother Benji Marshall, and how “grateful” he is for their relationship.
“If he didn’t come here for rugby league I don’t know where I’d be, I don’t think I’d be in the position I am right now,” Marshall-King said.
“When he moved over to QLD and went to Keebra (Park State High School) we probably came over, me and my brother about 2 years later.
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“If it wasn’t for him moving over, I could be back in NZ and wouldn’t have the opportunity I have had now.
“He’s been a massive influence on me. Super grateful for the opportunity he’s given me.”
Marshall-King also touched on the experience of playing for the NRL’s newest side, admitting the team heard all the doubters.
“It’s been pretty crazy. The community that got involved, the fans,” he said.
“A lot of people didn’t see us winning so many games so early.
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“It’s been so exciting. We’ve been loving it.
“A lot of people out there that said we were going to be the wooden spooners and wouldn’t do well but we’ve done pretty well so far.
“We’ve bonded so quickly. The boys are tight as.”
