Scott Drinkwater of North Queensland Cowboys has shared insights into his decision to join St George Illawarra Dragons next year.
A conversation with Dragons CEO Tim Watsford, along with his rapport with interim coach Dean Young, played significant roles in his choice.
Drinkwater is one of five notable recruits for the club, which is eager to reverse a troubling trend of poor performances over the past 15 years, highlighted by this season's unprecedented 11-match losing streak.
The joint-venture team is on track for its first wooden spoon, yet there's been positive movement off the field, with Drinkwater being accompanied by recruits Keaon Koloamatangi, Luke Metcalf, Phillip Sami, and Connor Watson for the 2027 season.
The organization is still deciding on their head coach, with Dean Young a prominent candidate. Drinkwater's recent comments on SEN Radio suggest Young, a former assistant coach during Drinkwater's time at the Cowboys, could be a leading contender.
"After meeting with Tim (Watsford), the CEO, I liked his bullish approach to how he wants to get things done, the views he had for the club (and) the way he's getting after it," he mentioned on SEN's Kick Off with Brandy and Jimmy.
"Dean Young was also another big factor there.
"I was coached by him up here in Townsville, and I felt like I played my best footy under him as the assistant coach. He was also a really big factor.
"Then as well, Val (Holmes) is one of my good mates and being able to go back down there and play footy with him.
"They got young forwards, but I just liked the approach of the CEO and the way he wanted to get the club going."