HI, it’s Luke here.

And I have to admit I’m feeling a little downbeat this week, because I’ve not got the trip to Catalans Dragons with the rest of the boys to look forward to.

I know there are many doubters out there in regards to the Dragons being in Super League, but I personally think it’s great, and the experience of playing out there is something I know I’m going to miss now I’ve retired.

I’m all for expanding the game of rugby league, and Catalans is a fantastic example of the sport’s successful expansionist policy.

It’s probably safe to say that everyone who’s been out there to watch a game absolutely loves it.

And even though you know it’s going to be a very physical encounter, a lot of the players love the experience, too.

The people of Perpignan are rugby league mad. There are Catalans flags and scarves all over the place, and the atmosphere they generate inside the Stade Gilbert Brutus is like nothing else you’ll encounter.

But, for me, the game itself is just one part of the occasion.

I really like the opportunity to spend a few days together as a squad and, as team-bonding exercises go, there’s nothing to beat it. To be part of a team that goes to the South of France and wins can set you up for the rest of the season.

Admittedly, you do have to watch what you’re doing while you’re out there in the build-up to the game, particularly if the weather’s pretty decent.

If it’s warm, you have to stay out of the sun and make sure you don’t over-do the lolly and ice-cream eating. I remember early on when I was at Salford and I took matters into my own hands, I ended up sweating Cornettos during the game, and it wasn’t pleasant, I can tell you!

But if you do end up winning, the chance to celebrate your success on the beach on the Saturday evening is an incredibly special feeling.

I know the boys are capable of making this weekend’s trip a successful one, and I know how much the majority of them will enjoy their entire time out there.

I say the ‘majority’, because I know one or two don’t embrace it quite as much as some of the others, with Danny Brough the prime example.

If Broughy had his way, we’d be like Leeds Rhinos and charter a plane to be straight in and out of there.

But I’m one of those who likes to relax and chill as much as possible on the day of the game, and that’s something you can’t really do if you’re having to get up at the crack of dawn, have to wait at an airport and are worrying if you’re going to get to the stadium with the necessary time to spare.

Having said that, I think Broughy’s preferred option of a day trip may also have something to do with the fact that he’d rather be sitting in an old-fashioned Working Men’s Club, supping a pint of bitter and playing a game of pool rather than enjoying the more laid-back lifestyle of the South of France.

And helping the Giants secure anther great win at the home of the Dragons wouldn’t change his opinion in the least!