As the One New Zealand Warriors’ gruelling preseason draws to a close, fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad reflects on how the extra time together has strengthened the connection within the playing group – and opened the door for new leaders to emerge.
“It’s bittersweet having a long preseason because it means we didn’t make finals last year,” he said.
“But the extra work has been huge for us. We’re fit, strong, and more connected as a team.”
This preseason has been crucial for the Warriors, especially with the departure of key players Tohu Harris, Addin Fonua-Blake, Shaun Johnson, Jazz Tevaga and Marcelo Montoya.
Nicoll-Klokstad, now a senior member of the squad himself, said new leaders have stepped up and set the tone for the team’s culture and standards.
“It’s a different group, and those boys will certainly be missed, but it’s been an opportunity for others to rise up,” he said.
“Barney, Fish, Walks etc … those guys have really taken the reins and shown us the way forward.”
Team bonding has been a priority during the offseason, with the Warriors using their recent camp to strengthen connections, especially with new faces.
The team spent five days together without their phones and away from family.
Nicoll-Klokstad is confident the extra time spent together will help shape the team’s identity for the year ahead.
“Camp has been great for us to bond and get to know the new guys. It’s set us up well for what’s to come.”
The One New Zealand Warriors kick-off their Preseason Challenge campaign against the Sharks in Sydney on Friday, February 7 (7.30pm kick-off local time; 9.30pm NZT) followed by their second final hit-out against the Melbourne Storm at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton on Saturday, February 15 (3.30pm kick-off).
Buy tickets here for the showdown in Hamilton.
