Sometimes it takes an outsider to bring a key message home, purely because they look at everything from a fresher angle than those who have been integral for any period of time.
Yes, the start to the 2011/12 season has been tough, we all know that. But a few things struck The Tig in the company of Mathew Tait, Julian Salvi, Micky Young, Graham Kitchener, Niall Morris, Kieran Brookes and Richard de Carpentier at Welford Road.
First, they had not a single doubt that they would improve as players at Tigers, even considering the fact they face mighty competition for the shirt.
There is no easy way to become an established part of the Tigers story. No player comes to Tigers expecting to turn up, pick a peg and walk into the team. Regardless of status, history or potential, every player knows they will need to work hard, earn the respect of their colleagues and the trust of their coaches. They also know they have to be ready to make the most of their opportunities.
But all are willing to take on that challenge, knowing the competition, the support, the belief born of being a Tigers player will bring out the best in them. They don’t need to look too far in the dressing room at Oval Park to back up the theory either.
All seven, even the experienced men like World Cup finalist Tait and well-travelled Salvi, see Welford Road and the strength of support as central elements in their enjoyment of club rugby.
All seven were genuinely humbled to be a part of a club which has established itself at the very top of the club game in Europe, not just over one or two seasons but over generations.
They know the names of those who have gone before, the legends who have worn their shirts, and they are proud to be in a position to earn that shirt for themselves.
And they all, without even faltering, predict a strong season despite the understandable concerns during an opening period which has yielded just one win. They know they are in the right place. And so are we.
