After struggling with a hamstring injury throughout the 2016 season, Jayden Nikorima returned for duty on day one of the pre-season and showed his usual strong work ethic as he began preparations for the 2017 season.
He was given an opportunity to play first grade in the opening rounds last year, and the young utility was honoured to have been given the chance to show what he has to offer.
It was a short stint playing in the Holden Cup, as his season was cut short due to a hamstring injury which would see him unable to play for the Roosters in the finals series.
Now feeling fit and ready to go ahead of 2017, Nikorima will be looking for a full season to improve on a tough year.
On his second day of pre-season, Nikorima had his first physical test since the break when he took part in the Yo-Yo test with the other returning squad members, including Eloni Vunakece, Daniel Tupou, Latrell Mitchell amongst others.
Though it was a tough test for all involved, Nikorima showed that he was prepared to begin work after a solid effort.
"It was good to get some of the cobwebs out, and I'm happy with how I went," Nikorima said about the test.
His first field session was a tough slog, and he knows that it's not going to be easy ride to start the year.
The boys worked on speed and defensive drills under the hot Friday sun, and it was a fair indication of what is to come over months to follow.
"It's always tough, so I kind of know what to expect.
"I feel like I pulled up okay, but it's so early and there's a lot of work to do."
Nikorima went to Europe for the first time in the off-season, and said the break has helped him return with a new focus.
"It was awesome to get a break and see a different country.
"I think it's given me a good chance to re-fuel and come back feeling fresh.
"I'm really excited to see what's going to happen."
