Taniwha lock Bryce Williams has become the backbone to Northland's scrum since returning to the province in 2011 after more than a decade away.
Since being back in the Cambridge blue jersey, the 33-year-old has become a leader on and off the field. He is expected to make the finalcut when Northland ITM Cup coaches Derren Witcombe and George Konia name their side in the coming weeks.
Here's what Bryce had to say about all things rugby ...
With George [Konia] and Derren [Witcombe] new head coaches, is it exciting times within the ITM Cup squad?
Yes, it is very exciting times. Derren and George have bought a new lease of life and direction to the team. With the focus being Northlanders playing for Northland, this puts the passion behind the jersey.
Northland's first game this ITM Cup season is a Ranfurly Shield clash against Waikato, is this a bit of a focus at this stage? Have you ever come close to winning the shield?
It is definitely a huge focus for the Northland squad. We have discussed going into the season with our first game being a shield challenge and what motivation we need. There is no bigger motivation than challenging for a Ranfurly Shield. When I played for Auckland in 2003, we ended up winning 40-31 against Canterbury and won the Ranfurly Shield.
Being last season's co-captain, is there any message you'd like to get out to supporters so they can get behind the team?
We would love to get as many people along to our games as possible, including down to Waikato for the Ranfurly Shield challenge. It is always highly motivating having our supporters at the ground and cheering for us. Having the support in the crowd always lifts the team. We need all Northlanders behind our Northland team.
What would be your career highlight?
My sporting highlight was coming back and playing for Northland after being away from the region for 13 years. [But], winning the Ranfurly Shield this year with Northland would definitely top any sporting highlight of my career.
