Jordan, 16, signed a two-year deal with the player-manager on the back of his selection for a Country Rugby League (CRL) under 16s team that will tour Samoa. 

Purcell manages a number of NRL players and recognised the Eden utility’s ability quickly during the championships, with Jordan signing on to further his career.

“He’s got all the hallmarks of a terrific talent and that is a testament to show it doesn’t matter what town you come from, if you have the right attitude, you can achieve anything,” Purcell said. 

Purcell helped Finucane and Jackson make their break in the NRL with Finucane celebrating his 100^th game last weekend, while Jackson played in the State of Origin Wednesday night. 

He said Jordan was showing a clear affinity for football, but it was aided by a good home life and playing among his mates. 

The player-manager will aim to assist in education and performance workshops for the rising young talent, who was selected for the CRL touring team after just three games in the country championships. 

Jordan will join Narooma team-mate Matt Parsons on the squad, after the duo impressed selectors early on. 

Jordan’s proud dad, Wayne, said the young lad was a versatile player that enjoyed running out of the second row or hitting up in the centres.

“He can do anything from the front row and enjoys the centres, he is a real team player; he just comes out of nowhere to make the tackle,” Wayne said after the selection. 

Wayne said he was excited for Jordan to be able to travel with the team and see Samoa as part of the tour, with details yet to be finalised. 

“We are waiting to hear more from the CRL, but the boys will off for a tour of Samoa,” Wayne said. 

The combined Southern team was just one try off qualifying to play in Dubbo recently, but the young Narooma duo impressed on the back of their preliminary matches. 

Matt has been named as number two in the touring line-up, while Jordan will form a utility role off the interchange. 

Wayne said he was excited to have the support of Purcell in developing Jordan’s opportunities. 

“We’ve already sent a bit of footage off to some clubs and we’ll get him in to as many trial games and training camps as we can,” Wayne said. 

Purcell said the key now was to just help Jordan develop until he turns 18 with a focus on education.

“A footy career is finite, but your education is for life,” Purcell said. 

“He’s probably got six boxes ticked out of 10 to make a run and we’re just working now to help him tick those other four. 

“He’s got real potential and I want to see him at the next level.”