DEAN McAdam's boots have rarely graced the rugby league field of Gladstone in the last two years, his talents instead used in Yeppoon's St Brendans College team.

McAdam finished school at the end of last year, and the 18-year-old expected he would return to his former Tannum Sands Seagulls A Grade team.

But only a few weeks into the season this bloke, who likes to let his attitude and actions speak full volume, found out he'd nabbed himself a spot in the CQ Capras, playing in the state regional competition.

"I am really proud. I have been watching them since I was young," he said. "I debuted a couple of weeks ago, on Anzac weekend."

McAdam was born in Hervey Bay and moved to Tannum Sands when he was young. He played for the Seagulls before going to St Brendans for year 12.

He has dreamed since being a young player of suiting up for the Capras and perhaps one day for an NRL side.

He did not extend the fantasy back then to how important it would be to play in front of friends and family.

All of a sudden he has been thrust into the side for a match at Marley Brown Oval, playing before people he has known for years.

But the nerves haven't got to him just yet.

"It will be the first time for a lot of friends and some family to see me playing for the Capras," he said. "It will be pretty special to play. But nerves, no. Not really."

He knows his role in the Capras side, coming on as an impact player in the forwards mid-way through the first half until he is called back to the sideline.

Capras v Wynnum Manly

•  McAdam, Aaron Watson, Gerard Tema, Rajan Opetaia-Halls and Tyson White are Gladstone's Capras representatives
•  The match kicks-off at 7pm
•  Lead-up matches between Valleys and Brothers earlier in the day with gates open from 1.30pm