It's a rarity players are madly counting down the days until pre-season begins... but in Beau Fermor's case, it can be easily understood why.
Having been one of the Titans' best performers in preparation for a big 2023 season, tragedy struck the 25-year-old on the eve of season opener; rupturing his ACL and forcing him to sit frustrated on the sidelines as he recovered from his major knee injury.
Set to return to Parkwood on Monday for his first day back after the break, the 46-gamer has revealed how thrilled he is to be back given he has used 2024 as his motivator during his time in rehab.
"This season coming up has been the light at the end of the tunnel all year because I love playing footy and I love playing for the Titans," Fermor said.
"I will admit I’ve been jealous of the boys when I’ve been sitting on the sidelines. It’s a tough thing to explain because you sometimes feel a bit guilty that you’re sitting there and I can’t help them.
"I can’t wait for the trials to start and I can’t wait for Round 1 so I can start playing footy again and feeling like a footy player."
Whilst he won't be able to jump straight into regular programming from Monday despite his eagerness, Fermor has confirmed he will be ready to go for the Gold Coast's first game of the season with an anticipated return to full training in December.
"The knee is really good and I’ll be sweet for Round 1," he said.
"I can’t go from zero to 100 straight into pre-season… I’ve got a few weeks to build up to full inclusion with the team.
"A couple of weeks before Christmas, I’ll be in with the team for everything and just like another one of the boys, so that'll allow be to be fine by Round 1."
Beau Fermor: ACL Recovery Journey Part One
Anticipating what his first summer under new coach Des Hasler will be like, the talented forward has not shun away at the prospect of it being a gruelling welcome back to the NRL, excited for what the two-time premiership-winning mentor can help achieve at the Titans.
"A new coach means new ways of thinking and training. It’s a bit of an unknown going into the pre-season and has got everyone a bit on edge wondering what’s going to happen," Fermor said.
"I think that’s what we need as a team. I think we have a squad here that can go deep into the finals and challenge for a premiership.
"That's why we're all here and if you're not here for that reason, you shouldn't be here.
"I think it’s time we need to be pushed and make sure we’re winning more games than we’re losing, so I’m looking forward to returning on Monday."
