DAVID FA’ALOGO is determined to make the most of a first full pre-season in three years when he takes to the field for the Giants’ Super League opener against Warrington in Cardiff on Saturday week.
The 30-year-old former New Zealand Test back-rower will head to the Magic Weekend at the Millennium Stadium after two successful run-outs in pre-season wins over St Helens and Hull KR.
Those performances came after the ex-South Sydney favourite had taken a full part in this winter’s training, which was in stark contrast to the year before when he spent his first pre-season with the Giants in rehabilitation following knee and ankle surgery.
And Fa’alogo is confident such a successful winter will be reflected in a blockbusting 2011.
“Fitness-wise, I feel pretty good and I can’t wait for the season to start,” said Fa’alogo, who is ready to form a formidable back-row partnership with former Australia Test forward Luke O’Donnell.
“To be honest, it’s completely different to this time 12 months ago when I spent so much time in rehab and knew so little about my teammates, the opposition and the English conditions.
“I’ve now completed an excellent pre-season – my first for three years – and came through the trial games feeling fit.
“That’s done wonders for my confidence and I’m ready to start with a clear mind and put aside all my injury frustrations.
“The trial games have backed up what we’ve been doing pre-season and I’m looking forward to playing a full part in what could be a big year.”
