This is the relevant section from the Australian Brent Read article
As Smith’s career edges slowly towards finality, another remarkable story is about to begin. Brad Deitz was working as a teacher a month ago and had to ask for permission to take a break from his education duties so he could train with Canterbury on a full-time basis.
That decision looks set to pay off with a first grade debut at the age of 26 thanks to his own determination and an injury that has robbed the Bulldogs of hooker Jeremy Marshall-King.
Deitz isn’t in the Bulldogs’ top 30 or on their development list, but it is understood that Canterbury have applied or and been given permission to select him this week pending Marshall-King’s fitness.
He will likely be named in the first grade squad on Tuesday and make his debut on Friday night against Newcastle as Trent Barrett takes charge of the Bulldogs for the first time in the NRL.
Canterbury recruit Brad Deitz playing for the North Sydney Bears
Deitz was outstanding in the Bulldogs trial against Cronulla, putting himself in the frame for selection. His first grade debut has been a long time coming. At North Sydney, where he played Canterbury Cup, he was vying with Sam Verrills for the opportunity to back up Sydney Roosters captain Jake Friend.
When Friend went down, Verrills got the call-up and Deitz was forced rot bide his time. That time has now arrived.