Jared Waerea-Hargreaves may only be 29-years-old, but his experience on the big stage has seen him become one of Roosters' senior leaders heading into Grand Final week.
Waerea-Hargreaves will make his 199th NRL appearance when he runs out in Sunday's main event against the Melbourne Storm.
The Kiwi forward is familiar with what's involved with winning a Grand Final, having lifted the Provan-Summons trophy with the Roosters in 2013, and his advice to his teammates who've yet to taste that level of limelight was simple.
"Prepare as well as you can but at the same time, enjoy the week," he told Newshub.
"Don't let too much external stuff get involved in your preparation, but just enjoy the ride and live it up."
Just a handful of players remain from that title-winning victory over the Sea Eagles - including captain Boyd Cordner – and all have been urging their younger teammates to capitalise on what's in front of them.
"I think there are five or six of us who were involved in 2013. We're trying to send the message to these younger boys that you have to make the most of these opportunities."
The Rotorua-product is expecting plenty of support from his native side of the ditch.
"Mum's coming over from back home, so she'll be here soon.
"No doubt the rest of the family back home will be watching and supporting us.
"It's a pretty proud moment for me and my family."
Newshub.
