RETURNING Giants hero Chris Thorman is relishing the chance to play a leadership role with the Giants in Super League X!
The 24-year-old goalkicking stand-off has been confirmed as the club's vice captain for 2005.
It's a role he held on a temporary basis during the Giants' promotion-winning NFP season in 2002.
But he admits holding the post on a more permanent basis is a far more rewarding experience.
"There were a couple of times in the NFP that I was stand-in captain for Steve McNamara," recalled the Newcastle-born star.
"But this is far more official and makes me much prouder.
"And I'm also sure Ben and myself will complement each other very well in our new roles, directing the team around the park.
"As the team's playmaker, it's up to me anyway to try and make the team tick, so I'm hoping I'll have little trouble adapting to the role.
"To be honest, I'm really looking forward to it."
Thorman returns to Huddersfield after spells at London Broncos and then top Australian club Parramatta Eels and believes the club has never been in better shape.
"I thought the club was great before I went to London Broncos," reflected Thorman.
"But in the two years I've been away it's become even better.
"The standard of the facilities are spot-on, and that's helped in the way we have been able to prepare in pre-season.
"But what has given us even more confidence is the work we were able to do on our training camp in Portugal last month.
"I would have to say that was one of the best rugby league experiences I have ever known.
"Everything about our time there was perfect.
"We knew we were going there to work very hard, but it was well worth it."
As well as directing the side from the stand-off position, Thorman will also start the season as goalkicker, with first-choice marksman Michael De Vere still a month away from playing following major knee surgery.
But given his five out of five haul at Bradford Bulls in the recent pre-season clash, that shouldn't create a problem.
"I suppose I'm keeping the seat warm until Mick (De Vere) makes his debut," added Thorman, who could hand over the role to Paul March or Brad Drew at some stage.
"But I've always enjoyed it."
