So Wests Tigers are officially underway for 2014! A portion of the squad returned to training on Monday in which they will be worked under the new coaching staff of Mick Potter, Todd Payten, David Kidwell and 20's coach Andrew Webster. So what are some of the early talking points amongst the media and fans of the club heading into the first week of training?
1. Not surprisingly much has already been made of Benji Marshall's departure. It's a new chapter at Wests Tigers and coach Mick Potter seems comfortable in forging a new path for the Tigers in 2014. He appears to have the tools capable of building the club up. The big question will be how the young guys respond in 2014 and just how much patience gets directed Potter's way.
2. There's been some early talk regarding young halfback Luke Brooks who's stellar debut versus the Dragons has raised the expectations put on the 18 year old. Coach Potter has confirmed that whilst Brooks will most likely start the season as first choice, the club is not placing expectations on him. If he needs a step back from first grade, it will happen. The club realises it is a steady goes approach for young Brooks. Brooks himself is currently undergoing a strength and conditioning program after it was revealed he had some some stress fractures developing in his back. He's not expected to have this hinder his pre season though.
3. A lightly less travelled issue this off season has been the state of the facilities at Concord. Coach Mick Potter and CEO Grant Mayer have been on record as stating that the facilities at Concord Oval were in need of an upgrade. Some photos during the off season have shown some upgrades being made around the facility and coach Potter also revealed this week that the club would make some advancements in the field of sport science this season. Improving the facilities all round will be crucial to the success of the team in 2014. Although this appears to be something that will take place over a few seasons. However, some progress is better than none it seems.
4. One thing again appears obvious regarding the Wests Tigers squad for 2014. There's an awful lot of inexperience once more. Much will be heaped on the likes of Robbie Farah, Adam Blair, Keith Galloway, Aaron Woods, Chris Lawrence and new signings Pat Richards and Dene Halatau. However the current Rugby League World Cup has aided several of our younger players in their developments. James Tedesco has been real impressive in the unfamiliar role in the centres for Italy. The experience seems to have certainly aided his development. Joel Luani and Sauaso Sue have also spoken confidently about the benefits they have gained whilst part of their World Cup squads. I'm sure Marika Koroibete is the same with his Fiji squad. This World Cup has not only extended the seasons of several of our younger brigade, but also appears to aided their developments. This is great news!
