De Saxe looking to cement NYC spot

Hunter Ports Newcastle Knights NYC utility James De Saxe says he hopes to cement a regular spot in the Knights’ under 20’s team for the upcoming season.

De Saxe has linked up with the Knights after playing in the Toyota Cup for the Melbourne Storm last season.

The 18-year-old is originally from the South Coast of New South Wales and captained the Moruya-Tuross Sharks under 16’s side to the Group 16 title in 2010 before being snatched up by the Storm.

De Saxe said he is determined to play an important role for the Knights NYC team this season.

“I came up six weeks ago and I’m just going through pre-season now,” he said.

“It’s been pretty tough, but I’m just looking to try and cement a spot in the under 20’s and play good, consistent footy all year.

“I normally play in the halves, but I also played a bit of hooker last year.

“I copped an injury early in the season last year, but I think I’ll be playing mainly in he halves this year.”

De Saxe said the Knights’ pre-season had been difficult so far, but believes the players are making clear progress in terms of their fitness.

“It’s the last day today of pre-season and the boys have definitely come a long way since day one,” he said.

“Everyone is becoming tighter with each other and we’re moving forward with our fitness.

“It’s all about team bonding and all the boys coming together to push each other and make sure we all keep going.”