The Newcastle Knights have officially launched their summer pre-season campaign, taking their training on the road with the first of four community sessions held at Raymond Terrace's Lakeside Sporting Complex this past Saturday.
Ponga's Hungry Return to the Paddock
Captain Kalyn Ponga has declared himself "hungry" and ready to play his "best footy" after returning to the training paddock following a significant portion of last NRL season lost to injury. The star fullback, who turns 28 in March and is contracted to the Knights until the end of 2027, has overcome the second Lisfranc injury of his career.
"I feel good. Obviously the body's right. I had some time off in the off-season to get the mind right. Just hungry and I want to play my best footy," Ponga stated. He emphasised that this mindset begins with training hard and striving to win every session, setting the tone for the upcoming NRL season.
New Faces and Forging Combinations
The pre-season tour is providing the first real opportunity for new combinations to gel. Ponga has already begun working with new recruit Sandon Smith, the 22-year-old from Gosford who joins Newcastle after 46 games with the Sydney Roosters.
"We've had a couple of sessions now and he seems like a good lad," Ponga said of Smith. "I'm excited to play some good footy with him and build that combination, which is what pre-season is for."
Excitement is also building for the imminent arrival of playmaker Dylan Brown, who is fresh from a starring role for New Zealand in the Pacific Championships and has been nominated for the prestigious Golden Boot award. Ponga revealed he has already had a couple of coffees with his soon-to-be teammate, who is impressed with Newcastle and eager to join the squad after Christmas.
Community Connection and Tour Schedule
The opening session at Raymond Terrace was a hit with fans, who flocked to the complex to get autographs, take photos, and speak with their NRL heroes. Players like Dane Gagai and Fletcher Sharpe joined Ponga in engaging with the community.
"It gives us energy," Ponga said of the fan interaction. "Coming out here and seeing all these fans... We know how much it means to the people of the Hunter region." The event was also attended by Knights old boy Steve Simpson, now coaching the local Northern Hawks side.
All this is unfolding under the guidance of new head coach Justin Holbrook. Ponga, who has now played under three coaches at the Knights, described Holbrook's early demeanour as "calm and poised."
The Knights on Tour community program continues with three more stops before Christmas: Cessnock Sportsground on Saturday, McDonald Jones Stadium on December 13, and Coffs Harbour on December 20.
