With her sights set on locking down a starting spot in Cronulla's forward pack, new recruit Jacinta Carter has revealed how moving to the Sharks has reignited her passion for rugby league.
After departing the Knights to sign with the Sharks on a two-year deal, Carter made her club debut in last weekend's 12-all trial draw with the Roosters.
She started in the front row alongside Ellie Johnston and is determined to keep the role for a Round 1 clash with the Eels at Sharks Stadium on Thursday, July 3.
"I have never been so happy. It sort of kickstarted my love for footy again," Carter said when speaking to sharks.com.au about her move to the beachside club.
The Queensland-born prop highlighted how training with the 2024 grand finalists is unlike anything she's experienced elsewhere, praising head coach Tony Herman for his rugby league acumen.
"Hermo is so smart," Carter said.
"He's taught me so many things that I would have never thought of.
"This is probably one of the most intense pre-seasons I've had. Not just because of the training that we've been given, but we haven't had one session where the girls are training 50%. Everyone's always at 110%."
Having been at Newcastle when they secured the premiership in 2023, Carter knows a strong pre-season lays the groundwork for a title-winning year.
She likened the vibe around the Sharks to that of the Knights two seasons ago.
"That year was another amazing year where I was just super, super happy," she said.
"The girls all just loved each other and we wanted to do anything on the field for each other. I think that's what can help you get to that grand final."
Invigorated by joining a new side and moving further from home, the powerhouse forward has left no stone unturned coming into a pivotal season.
"Not getting picked last year (for Newcastle) opened my eyes a fair bit," Carter said, adding that she's using the frustration of being overlooked as motivation.
"Coming to a new club with a new coach, I prepared probably the best I've ever prepared. I was training all the way from November last year until now.
"I'm doing my long running sessions and being really consistent with my gym and making sure I'm feeling ready to go."
CLICK HERE to secure tickets for Cronulla's blockbuster season opener as Carter and her teammates aim to hit the ground running against Parramatta.
