As a 19-year-old it has been a big move from Townsville to Newcastle for new recruit Kalyn Ponga.
But by all good reports from the teenager so far, he's loving life as a Novocastrian.
“I love the boys, love the place… it’s amazing and I feel pretty welcome which is awesome,” smiled Ponga.
“I have only been here three weeks but I feel comfortable already and the boys have helped a lot.”
Being the first name to sign on with the nib Newcastle Knights for the 2018 season, Ponga never imagined the calibre of players that would follow in his footsteps.
“When I signed I didn’t realise the type of people that were going to come after me,” he explained.
“I'm looking forward to playing and training with the experienced players that are now with the Club... and also the youth that we have within the team.”
There is also no doubt, the recent signing of Mitchell Pearce has created a buzz around the team.
“I didn’t think that he would come but I'm so glad he did,” Ponga commented.
“Since he has come to the Club you can tell he’s got a very experienced head on him, and he’s an awesome fella as well.
“I think the Club has done well with signings this year and I'm looking forward to it.”
The 19-year-old will be looking to lock down the custodian role next season.
“There are no promises in rugby league… I want that fullback position but we’ve got (Nick) Meaney, Matty Cooper... then there's Rossdog (Nathan Ross) who played last year in that position and he's an awesome talker and has got lots of energy,” Ponga said.
“There is that competition there which is good because it keeps everyone honest and competitive at training.
“I want the fullback position but nothing is promised and I'm going to keep working hard."
However, Ponga can switch between a number of positions if needed.
“I played wing on debut and in a couple of other games," he said.
"If Browny (Nathan Brown) wants to move me to the halves, or anywhere really, I will be happy to.
“Fullback is my position and that is where I want to be, but if I get shifted around I’m not too fazed.”
