The 2019 premiership could have a fitting bookend for Angus Crichton, who is aiming to leave the Sydney Roosters with another title.
Sunday night's grand final against Newcastle will be his 214th and final NRL match before he joins the NSW Waratahs in rugby.
Crichton's eight-year Roosters career has included mental health struggles in 2023 and uncertainty over his place at the club.
In 2024, he was told there would be no new contract after the Roosters signed David Fifita, who later backflipped.
Crichton told AAP: "That's the thing with this club. They demand success and you've always got to be at the top of your game when you're here."
"Everything's earned, nothing's given," he said.
He said having to fight for a contract or a place in the team had helped shape him.
"Through the darkest times you've got to find something within you and it ends up being your biggest strength."
Crichton produced the best season of his career in 2024, then earned the chance to leave on his own terms.
He said the difficult period had built resilience and grit, which he considers his biggest strength.
Last week, Crichton said only a premiership would make a fitting farewell.
"This is what you pray for and put your whole life into. You want these moments," he said.