Paul McGregor almost looks like a proud father when he talks about St George Illawarra's State of Origin prospects.
Headed into Saturday night's crunch top-of-the-table clash with Penrith, the Dragons still have seven players well and truly in the mix for Origin selection.
Some coaches would almost be tempted to beg for representative mercy.
But not former NSW assistant McGregor, who has played a role in each of their developments.
Tariq Sims was at a low point of his career when McGregor lured him from Newcastle midway though 2016. Now he's one of the competition's most ferocious back-rowers again.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
Hooker Cameron McInnes' career was at the crossroads too that same season, after he spent time in reserve grade and South Sydney bought Robbie Farah for 2017.
At the same time, Paul Vaughan was languishing in reserve grade at Canberra. Two years later at the Dragons and he's one of the best forwards in the game.
Ben Hunt came with a big price tag to the Dragons this year, considering there were questions about him when he left Brisbane. But they've all disappeared in 11 games in the Red V.
Then there's the likes of Jack de Belin. Euan Aitken and Tyson Frizell. Players McGregor has worked with since they were juniors but who have now hit their straps.
"As a coach it's the most pleasing thing," McGregor said.
"Because firstly your team is doing well, they're doing everything they can for your team so that's the most important thing.
"And then as a player they've improved. As a coach the main focus you've got is improving a player when he comes to your club.
"A lot of players that are mentioned, I've had a lot to do with their careers since they came to the club or I've been there coach for a number of years now."
What's been just as interesting is the way McGregor has allowed his players to handle the hype.
Saturday's Penrith clash is one of the biggest in their push for an Origin jersey - Blues coach Brad Fittler even admitted that this week.
But Dragons players have been primed for this occasion for more than a month.
"There's no right or wrong way," McGregor said.
"You let them go at that as coach as long as it doesn't get out of control.
"It's been coming for a number of years and if players get rewarded because of a team effort and position on the ladder and their performances, it's great."
