'Doesn't define me': Bronson Xerri opens up on 'dark times' ahead of long-awaited milestone

While it's rarely celebrated, playing 50 games of first grade rugby league is certainly no mean feat and for Bulldogs star Bronson Xerri, it means so much more.

The strike centre burst onto the scene with the Cronulla Sharks six years ago, making his debut as a fresh-faced 18-year-old with the world at his feet.

However, just one season into his NRL career, Xerri was hit with a whopping four-year suspension after testing positive for anabolic steroids.

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Despite genuine concerns he would never return, Xerri worked tirelessly and earned a contract with Canterbury, where he's now become a staple of their backline.

Speaking to 9News ahead of his milestone game against the Raiders, the 24-year-old opened up on his journey back to the game he loves.

"It feels like ages ago," Xerri said.

"I will never shy away from that, I take full responsibility for what I've done and I've moved on from it. I didn't give up, I got back on my own two feet and got on with it.

"I was trying to survive each day. There were dark days and I was trying to survive and get on with it. I wasn't thinking too far and I'm blessed to be where I am right now.

"That was a big consequence that I had to pay and I didn't know anything else other than footy. It was a massive life lesson of mine and I've definitely grown from it.

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"Fifty games, I'm proud of myself - but god willing, there's more games to come.

"Everything happens for a reason and I'm blessed to be in the position I am now."

A crucial part of Xerri's return to rugby league was club boss Phil Gould.

However, according to the Dogs star, there wasn't even a full-blown recruitment pitch.

"I was still kind of in a patchy area of my life where I wasn't motivated," Xerri said.

"That meeting with Gus was all I needed. It was honestly just a catch-up.

"It wasn't even him saying that he wants me at the club - he was just saying 'how are you' and being genuine and I respected that heaps.

"I remember walking away from it motivated."

Xerri's form over the past year with the Bulldogs has placed him firmly in the mix for a State of Origin debut - something that seemed impossible in 2020 when his ban started.

But perhaps more important for the Aquinas Colts junior is making his family proud.

"My mum saw all the dark times - I live with her and she's seen all the dark moments and she's definitely proud of how far I've come," Xerri said.

"It's great to see I'm making my family proud again and my nieces, nephews and cousins are proud to own that last name. 

"We all make mistakes and even though that was a massive mistake of mine, it doesn't define me as a person and I know I'm a good respectful person.

"Kids can still look up to me as a role model."

Canterbury will travel to GIO Stadium on Saturday for a top-four clash with Canberra.