Still only 16 years of age, the tenacious hooker has made the huge leap forward in 2019 earning selection for both the Newcastle Wildfires and NSW country squads for the second year in a row.

As Raymond Terrace does not have a senior union club, the apprentice electrician has joined the highly respected Wanderers club.

Standing at 185cm tall and weighing a solid 105kg, Badger has the physical presence to stand out in the hooker role.

"This season has been more of a learning process for me," said Badger, who turns 17 in October.

"I have been training with the top grades at the Wanderers club, which has really helped my skill level and confidence.

"I actually enjoy playing against more senior and experienced players. It's a great learning curve but it also gives me the confidence to improve myself. I have been getting a lot of practice at the lineouts."

Five months ago Badger started an apprenticeship as an electrician, which has given him a better perspective on the challenges ahead as he learns to juggle work with his sporting endeavours.

"I enjoy the work and I get treated well. It just means I have to organise my training days around work and TAFE."

Badger's immediate goal is to win a grand final with his Wanderers under 18 teammates, but the NSW Waratahs and Wallabies are never far from his thoughts.

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