It's end of the semester and Surfers Paradise are having their report card graded!
We chatted with Surfers Paradise coach Reggie Goodes, who's overseeing something of a cultural revolution at the club. Reggie gives us an honest look at where his side is at heading into the business end of the year.
GCDRU: If you had to give your season so far a report card grade, what would it be and why?
Reggie: Our season report reminds me when I was a teenager at school.
If we prepare well, we are scoring A's. But if we do not prepare well, we are failing the test!
GCDRU: What's been the standout performance or moment of your season to date and why?
Reggie: Our standout moment this season was our come-from-behind victory over the Nerang Bulls a couple of weeks ago.
After getting hammered 49-12 to them in Round 1, the boys dug deep, showed great character, and never gave up.
GCDRU: Where has the biggest improvement in your side come from since the start of the season?
Reggie: I believe our biggest improvement this year has been the culture at the club.
We are working hard to create an environment where players and everyone involved with the club don't have to be there but genuinely want to be there.
We also see players starting to lead themselves.
GCDRU: What's the one area your side needs to tighten up in these last few rounds?
Reggie: The biggest area we need to improve is the consistency of our performances.
We've had a season with a few ups and downs, but it will be crucial for us to find that consistency over the final few rounds.
GCDRU: Which of your player/s do you think will be most influential in the run home to finals and why?
Reggie: I'd hate to single out just a few players, but if I had to make two special mentions, the first would be Angus Burns, our tighthead prop.
He has stepped into a leadership role and has been an anchor in our scrum, ball carrying, and defence.
Another special mention goes to JK, who came in as an experienced old head this season. He has been sidelined with a broken nose for the past five weeks but he has still been at training and games, sharing his wisdom, experience and insights on the game. His goal-kicking boot will also be crucial as we head into the back end of the season.
Another special mention I want to make is to Amber and Kerri, who have been the rocks of the club. They dedicate an incredible amount of time keeping things running, from organising behind the scenes to working behind the bar.
They give up their time throughout the week supporting everyone from the juniors right through to the seniors. Without Amber and Kerri, the club wouldn't be what it is today.
