As the NRL pre-season ramps up, Kalyn Ponga has officially switched into full gear, preparing to lead the Newcastle Knights to what they hope will be a breakthrough season. Ponga, who has been the face of the club since joining in 2018, is entering his most crucial pre-season yet. After a turbulent 2023 campaign, which saw the Knights battle injuries and inconsistent form, Ponga is determined to guide his team back into contention for a top-eight finish in 2024.

The 25-year-old fullback has long been one of the most exciting players in the league, known for his electrifying runs, deft ball skills, and leadership on the field. However, 2023 proved to be a challenging year for Ponga, as he struggled with concussion-related injuries that kept him sidelined for a portion of the season. Despite the setbacks, he showed glimpses of his best form when on the field, and now, with a full pre-season to prepare, he is determined to return to his top level.

Speaking to reporters during the Knights’ first official training session of the pre-season, Ponga made it clear that he was feeling fit and ready for the challenges ahead. “The body feels great,” Ponga said. “It’s been a long off-season, and I’ve been working hard to make sure I’m in the best possible shape for 2024. I’ve learned a lot from last season, and now it’s time to focus on consistency and getting my body in the right place to help the team.”

Ponga’s resilience has been one of his standout traits throughout his career, and he is using his experiences from the previous season to fuel his motivation. His leadership qualities have already been on display as he takes the reins during the pre-season, helping to guide the Knights’ younger players and foster a competitive environment.

The Knights are looking to build on the momentum from the back end of their 2023 season, where they managed to string together a strong run of form and push for a finals berth. With Ponga leading from the back, they will be hoping to start 2024 with a bang. The Knights have also added some promising new recruits to their squad, which has further raised expectations for the upcoming season. The addition of players like former Queensland forward David Klemmer, and young talent like Jayden Brailey and Dom Young, provides extra depth that the team was lacking last year.

Coach Adam O’Brien has been vocal about the importance of Ponga’s presence both on and off the field. “Kalyn is the heart and soul of this team. We know how much he can impact a game when he’s playing at his best, and this pre-season is crucial for him to get back to that level. His leadership in training is something that sets the tone for the rest of the team, and we’re all excited to see what he can bring in 2024.”

In addition to his physical preparation, Ponga has been working on refining his game, particularly his kicking game and communication with his halves. The Knights’ attack will likely run through him, and if he can combine his natural flair with tactical improvements, it will make the team far more dangerous in the attack. There’s a sense of optimism surrounding the club, as fans are eager to see if Ponga can stay fit and lead the team to greater heights.

For the Knights, the 2024 season represents a fresh opportunity to break free from mediocrity and make a push for the NRL finals. With Kalyn Ponga back at the helm, they have a player capable of making the difference. The pre-season preparations are underway, and all eyes will be on Ponga as he aims to guide Newcastle back to the top of the NRL standings.