As he enters his 15th year in the NRL, Sydney Roosters captain Anthony Minichiello says he is honoured to be the face of the game in 2014.
Minichiello officially launched the new NRL season at a function at the Sydney Exhibition Centre at Glebe Island on Wednesday.
And the two-time premiership winner said it was a role he was happy to play.
"It's my 15th year in the NRL and it really is an honour," Minichiello said.
"The game is in really good shape and there is plenty to be excited about heading into the season.
"I think it's the most exciting sporting competition in the world and I'm looking forward to the start of the new season as much as I ever have."
The Roosters will this year attempt to be the first side to chase back-to-back title wins since Brisbane in 1992-93 and Minichiello said the tricolours were well prepared for the challenge ahead.
"We have trained well in the offseason and we have pretty much the same side we did as last year so that should put us in good stead," he said.
"Other sides are going to get up to play us and we have to be ready for that. We have to be ready over the course of the season, not just early on but through the 26 rounds and into the finals as well."
"I had a good break, I've become a father and now I'm ready for the football to start again."
The NRL season starts on Thursday March 6 when the Roosters meet their bitter arch-rivals South Sydney.
