Ace league year beckons

Graham Lowe is on a high. Healthwise he is feeling better than ever, and he has one of the most exciting years in rugby league to look forward to.

The chairman of the Auckland Warriors has just moved back home from Sydney, but will spend New Year's Eve in Fiji recharging himself for the big year.

The importance of the millennium has crept up on him, he says.

"When I first thought about it, it didn't mean anything to me. But then the more I thought about it ... it's a good positive opportunity that's presented itself to everyone.

"It is a time to put everything behind you, learn from all the good things and get on with it."

As for the Warriors, he expects them to win the National Rugby League grand final next year.

He reckons some say he is pushing the team too hard, but he believes they have not worked so hard for so long just to make the semifinals.