How Drinkwater quenched Cowboys thirst for excellence

North Queensland fullback Scott Drinkwater says finding fulfilment and purpose off the field has contributed largely to his scintillating form on it.

The 26-year-old has scored 11 tries and has 25 try assists this season. He has showcased individual brilliance but is also making those around him better under the guidance of head coach Todd Payten.

That form led to Drinkwater being called into the NSW Blues squad for Game Three of the State of Origin series.

Last year Drinkwater signed a long-term deal through until the end of 2027 and in April of this year he and partner Oshah Ianson welcomed a baby daughter into the world.

He said that family life had made him grow up and settle into a routine away from the rugby league field.

“Everything was just footy, footy, footy for me. Now I have got other things to worry about and it has relaxed me a little bit,” Drinkwater said.

“I am a footy nerd. I love it. I almost watch every game and my missus hates it, but at the moment I am trying to get…