Huddersfield new boy Tom Symonds insists that he had no qualms about joining the Giants, despite their poor league position.
The Australian forward signed from NRL side Manly earlier this month, years after Huddersfield had first contacted him about a move to Super League.
Having seen the club’s success over recent years, the 27-year-old admits the appeal of helping the club rediscover its winning culture was a big factor in the move.
“I was certainly aware of where the boys were sitting when I came over,” he said.
“Part of me accepting to come here was to help get us out of that so that wasn’t a surprise.
“With the coach leaving it was a bit of a spanner in the works. The first day we were going to train together that happened so it was a bit of a shock but at the same time it was a change for all the other boys as well as a change for myself.
“So I guess, in that way, we were all thrown in the same boat and I wasn’t the only one who had to get used to a few new things.
“It’s gone quick the first couple of weeks. I’ve had plenty to get sorted and organised but boys have been awesome helping me fit in and adjust.”
Like any move across the world, there will always be a few difficulties along the way. However, while many struggle with the weather, Symonds’ main issue has been understanding his Giants teammates who have a strong Yorkshire twang!
“I have to admit the first day I walked in, we were in the sheds together and there was a lot of noise and I wasn’t taking in too much of what was being said!
“But I’m getting there. The boys have got a lot of good banter. I enjoy that and it’s good fun.
“The rain is the thing everyone talks about back home as the main difference. If that’s the only bad thing I’m doing all right. But this was a good opportunity to experience a different lifestyle and if I have to cop a bit of rain so be it as there’s plenty of good things to come with it as well.”
Symonds makes his home league debut for the club on Thursday as the Giants take on league leaders Hull FC, and Symonds admits he has been impressed with some of his former NRL counterparts at the KCOM Stadium.
“They’re first and first for a reason; they’re doing a lot of good things and we certainly have to improve on last week’s performance.
“Minichiello’s been going well for them as well and a couple of backs have played NRL in Mahe Fonua and Carlos Tumiavavae so I know what to expect from some of those guys.”
