With the Newcastle Knights’ pre-season nearing the end of week ten but just back from the Christmas break, Jeremy Smith caught up with some of the players for feedback on the best pre-season performer.
NYC captain Danny Levi, who has trained with the NRL squad during the pre-season, identified Joseph Tapine as his stand out.
“I thought Joey has been going really well and his fitness is up there,” Levi said.
“He’s leading from the front. He’s usually a bit quiet bit he’s talking up this year.”
Tyrone Roberts found it difficult to judge from the few days back after the break but thought Chad Redman’s efforts were outstanding in the first half of the pre-season.
“He’s got a good little stride on him and has been working hard,” Roberts said.
Knights Strength and Conditioning Coach, Grant Duthie picked James McManus as the top performer in the squad.
“He really looked after himself in the off-season and came back in pretty good shape,” Duthie said.
“He’s been able to get through some quality work and is looking sharp for the 2015 season.”
In the gym, Duthie revealed pound-for-pound, Nathan Ross as the strongest in the squad.
He added, “Overall Pat Vaivai throws out a bit of tin in the gym and is going really well."
