Former NZ Warriors star Michael Luck admits constant personnel changes at the Auckland-based NRL club would deter players from crossing the Tasman.
After a season where the club finished 13th with only seven wins, Luck believes the uncertainty within the Warriors camp hinders players development.
"The hard thing with the Warriors over the last couple of years is there has been so much change in coaching staff and player turnover," Luck said.
"It is hard for a player to put his stamp on the place, and it must be hard for recruiters to sell it as a place where you can come to, with the culture we have, along with the style of football we play and how you fit into that."
But the now-Cowboys HR manager is confident that, despite a largely disappointing 2017, Warriors coach Stephen Kearney has already made a positive impact.
"Whilst the Warriors results weren't what many had hoped for this year, I watched every Warriors game and I saw a real turn in the structural play - things that aren't the highlights play," Luck said.
"They were never blown off the park when they were behind and all the little stuff which isn't highlight plays. I saw things turn around this year."
The 2009 Warriors Player of the Year joined the club from North Queensland, stating the club's coaches at the time as the main attraction, and he believes Kearney can emulate that, should he be given the time.
"What sold me was my relationship with Kevin Campion and then, through him, with Ivan Cleary," Luck said.
"Stephen Kearney is there for another year or two, and then that culture can start building and it becomes an easy sell."
Luck remains optimistic about the team's fortunes next season and is convinced the new recruits will bring a level of professionalism that they can share with the more inexperienced Warriors players.
"I think Tohu Harris is a great signing next year. He is coming from a great system in Melbourne and is young enough to be influential among the young guys - that could make a difference there."
Newshub.
