By Nathan Beuman
St George Illawarra Dragons utility Nathan Green has confessed that this campaign’s pre-season preparations have been the most enjoyable of his career.
The Renown United junior, who can play in the centre or second-row, believes that he can already see the benefits of having a full preparation of training in the back-row under his belt.
Green, 22, who recently became a father for the first time, admits that while he had trouble getting used to having a newborn at home, he is enjoying the added responsibility.
“It’s good to get a bit of pre-season under my belt,” said Green.
“Last year I just moved straight into the back-row so I am just learning off the older blokes who have played there.
“I’ve always been an outside back, then towards the end of last year McGregor asked me to play in the back row.
“It was a new challenge for me and I kind of liked it there a lot better than the centres.
“Being in the same system for probably the last four years, this is a bit different… but it has been probably the most enjoyable.
"I’ve always enjoyed McGregor as I’ve has a bit to do with him the last couple of years when he was the Illawarra Cutters coach and I would go back there and play with him.
“I enjoy his coaching a lot and I’m learning a lot off him.
“It’s still hitting me that I’m a father but my new son Hudson is doing well as is my partner Emily.
“I’ve just got to get use to sleeping at night which has been a bit tough but I’m getting use to it now.
“I’m just trying to get use to having a little one to look after and having more responsibility. I’m enjoying it so far.”
“I’m trying to improve myself as a back-rower because that is going to be the key, changing positions… getting used to different things I have to do as a back-rower as opposed to a centre, but I am getting use to them now.
“I enjoy playing underneath Mary as a coach. I think he is going to be a very good coach for this club.
“I just think I can play my best football under him and he just gives me a lot more confidence.
“He tells me what I am doing wrong straight away which helps.
He’s not going to sugar coat anything.
“If I’m not doing anything up to standards, he will let me know straight away.
“I kind of enjoy that in a coach, someone who is honest with you.”
