Crusaders newbie Leicester Fainga'anuku is relishing the opportunity to train and play alongside some of his idols.
The 19-year-old Tasman Mako winger signed a three-year contract with the Canterbury Super Rugby franchise last year after a strong Mitre 10 Cup campaign.
"The players we have in the Crusaders, the likes of George Bridge, David Havili, it's a massive stepping stone to be able to learn off these players every day." Fainga'anuku said.
The New Zealand under 20s star has been named in the squad to play the Hurricanes on Saturday in a pre-season fixture in Levin.
Fainga'anuku says he must fight for a permanent starting spot this season, but in the meantime is learning valuable lessons from the senior members of the team.
“(I'm) still sort of buzzing, admiring the other players around you, the dudes you grew up idolising.
"To be able to be in the same room, playing footy together and just working together, alongside each other. They have been real welcoming with open arms, so it makes it much easier to learn."
Crusaders coach Scott Robertson has compared the 109kg winger to a NFL running back.
"Leicester's like a running back in the NFL he's got the set up with the old dreads and he’s a great character, 19 turning 20, he's got power and going to be a really good player. Good professional and excited to have him in." his coach said.
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