Mitchell Pearce admits his first day at pre-season training with his new Club was a proud moment for him and an exciting taste of what is to come.
“I've been at one club for my whole career, it’s a massive change. But as soon as I came up to Newcastle and met with the staff and spoke to a few of the boys, something inside me was really keen to be a part of it,” Pearce explained.
“I feel like I can offer a lot to this Club and we can build something really successful over the next four years.”
The 28-year-old says the decision to come to Newcastle was helped by the fact he was excited by what the Club was building.
“When I left the (Sydney) Roosters, I had an open mind about where I wanted to play,” he said.
“After I came to Newcastle, I called dad on the way home and said there is something special… at this point in my career I’m excited to take on that leadership role.
“I had a really good feeling about Newcastle, I like the Club’s direction and I really believe we can push a few teams this year so the sky is the limit with this group and I can’t wait to get amongst it.”
Pearce was also attracted by the massive support shown by the entire town.
“The town gets behind the team, and even last year they were getting full crowds each year, so hopefully we can do them proud this year,” Pearce added.
“It's a different culture than what I am used to in Sydney, it’s a mad footy town and that is one of the reasons why I wanted to come here.