It was a hot first day for new recruit Chris Heighington at the nib Newcastle Knights on Wednesday.
The two-time premiership winner was put through his paces after enjoying a short break from footy.
“It was a big, hard session but I got through it,” smiled Heighington after the session.
“I really enjoyed the company of the boys and I’m excited to finally be here.”
The 34-year-old is the last of the new recruits to arrive at the Club, just weeks after he represented England in the thrilling World Cup final against Australia.
“That game was one of the toughest I have been part of so to know that I can still handle it at that level, I was pretty happy,” Heighington said.
“I have played a few years now so hopefully I can bring some experience to the Knights and we can have a good year.”
Heighington admits he was keen to start with the Club and get to know all his new teammates.
“I wanted to do a few sessions before the Christmas break,” Heighington explained.
“I have only had a bit over two weeks off which is ok because I enjoy training and being around the group.
“I got to know a few of them today and will get to know a few more of them over the next couple of weeks.”
And the new change suits him to a tee.
“It’s a good spot here… it works really well for me,” Heighington added.
“I grew up on the Central Coast and always loved the Knights so it is a great way to finish the back end of my career.”
“There’s been some great signings… we have a good mixture of youth and experience now.
Chris Heighington
With more than 300 NRL games to his name, Heighington will provide a wealth of experience for younger players and he’s all set to get stuck in to his leadership role.
“It’s good to be around young kids coming through,” he said.
“I can help them excel and hopefully help them build a good career.
“There’s been some great signings… we have a good mixture of youth and experience now.
“Everyone is bubbling out on the field and really confident so there is a good vibe around and I’m really happy to be here.”
The hard-hitting prop is one of a number of players that will be pushing for a spot in the forward pack in 2018, but Heighington maintains he’s happy to play where he’s needed.
“Probably play in the middle or wherever Brownie (Nathan Brown) wants to play me,” he commented.
“On the bench or wherever… I’ll have to wait to see what he wants to do.
“I am just focused on doing my best for the Knights next season and having no injuries, so I’ll take it week-by-week.”
