Rugby league is a game, but there are many reasons for the Dragons to take 2016 seriously.
This season is Russell Packer’s chance to redeem himself after his prison sentence and legal struggle to avoid deportation.
The Dragons have welcomed and guided him, and after a year with the Illawarra Cutters, Packer has his chance to repay them.
Joining Packer and Leeson Ah Mau in the Dragons front row is Samoan international Mose Masoe, out to prove he can make it in the NRL. These three front rowers are also old friends.
Ah Mau has been at the Dragons for many years but towards the end of last season he took his game to a new level, discovering what he can deliver. He is now set for a breakout season.
At a relatively light weight 103 kilograms, English international front rower Mike Cooper is also keen to make a statement this year after England’s series win over New Zealand.
Veteran Forward Ben Creagh is out to prove that he has a few good years left in him and could be damaging playing out wide.
Benji Marshall, after his failed stint in rugby, wants his New Zealand cap back. Benji can look forward to weaving his magic behind a stronger pack this year and will be out to extend his stay at the Dragons beyond 2016.
English international five-eighth Gareth Widdop has little left to prove, but now has the Dragons captaincy to push him further.
Josh Dugan seems to want to get closer to the action in the centres, while the rest of the backs are fighting for the remaining positions.
New Zealand international Jason Nightingale looks to have one wing position tied down, while young centre Euan Aitken will be battling to get the remaining centre position.
Tim Lafai has something to prove after being dumped by the Bulldogs, and Kurt Mann has the challenge of making the fullback spot his with Peter Mata’utai eager to take it from him.
The remaining wing spot will be hotly contested with the selection dependent on the trial matches.
The Dragons have the Nines and four trial matches to work out selections and get the squad match fit before the season opener against the Storm in Melbourne.
With a strong Samoan connection – three forwards and three backs – in the squad, and a blend of established players from last year, team spirit is strong and the coaching panel looks stronger than last year.
Much will depend on how Paul McGregor juggles his squad throughout the season, but at the start of the season many of the team have strong individual motivation to contribute.
Walter Penninger
Roar Guru
I agree with all your comments about last year, but I think you have to give a NZ international the chance to prove himself in 2016.
Dean - Surry Hills
Guest
Not sure on Nightingale. Last years performance at the Dragons was sub-par. He rarely threatened in attack, and found it difficult to beat the first man in defence like he normally does. His defensive reads were less than ordinary and as a result a stack of points were scored down his flank. He also used to be as safe as houses in the air, but last year he dropped a stack. He went well when he strapped on a Kiwi jersey though!