Sam Rapira is determined to clinch silverware following his switch to Huddersfield Giants.
The New Zealand international got to grips with his new team mates for the first time this week as he and fellow recruit Ryan Hinchcliffe arrived in Great Britain.
And Rapira is excited to embrace his new challenge with both hands.
“It’s the same game but in a different part of the world,” said Rapira.
“The chance to travel played a big part in it and also getting out of my comfort zone. It’s good for me to try and experience something else, and having watched the Super League the competition looks challenging. It’s another challenge for me and one I’m looking forward to get stuck into.”
“I know what the big boys already do here and that’s take the team forward. I’ve just got to add to that and I’m sure I can do.”
Rapira had spent the duration of his career at the New Zealand Warriors before his switch to Huddersfield. A move to England was never a part of the plan for the 28-year-old, but when the opportunity presented itself, he admitted that he was keen to make the switch.
“I never really thought I would come over here,” admitted Rapira.
“But once it became an option I had a good discussion with the family and we decided why not. We thought we’d give it a crack and I’ve been watching a bit of the Super League since, so I’m just really excited to be here.
“It’s been good so far. I’m only a week in and me and the kids are still adjusting so we’re enjoying it.”
New signings Ryan Hinchcliffe & Sam Rapira in pre-season training. Watch them in 2016 – Discount Deadline Monday 5pm pic.twitter.com/5JajIPfSk8
— Huddersfield Giants (@Giantsrl) November 26, 2015
Following a string of anguish in the play-offs, the Giants head into 2016 as dark horses once again, with their accomplishments in the knockouts, should they make it, determining their success at the end of next year.
After so much disappointment, the Kiwi forward is focused on turning the club’s fortunes around and bringing some major silverware to the club.
“We’ve got a good group of talent and I’m looking forward to playing with them throughout the year.”
“They’re already a top four side and the goods are already here. It’s just a case of fine tuning it now, and for me personally I’m just looking forward to rubbing shoulders with them on the field.
“The staff, the physios and the rehab programmes we’ve got here are probably the best I’ve seen.
“I want to keep improving, and whatever team I’m with I want to do my best for them and bring a bit of success too.”
