If Simon Mannering epitomises the true Warriors leader on the field, Cameron George is the true leader off it.
The Warriors may not be in Sunday's NRL Grand Final, but they still have plenty to celebrate. Their resurgent season culminated in skipper Roger Tuivasa-Sheck winning the Dally M Player of the Year.
Much of the club's success can be attributed to the work done behind the scenes and if there was a Dally M for CEO's, George would be hot favourite.
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"I love my job," he told Newshub. "It's the best job in New Zealand sport, without a doubt.
After one season in the top job, the Aussie straight-shooter has turned the Warriors from NRL also-rans to title contenders.
"I'm proud of the fact that we were able to set new initiatives and reset the culture."
The work paid off. In a fan-satisfaction survey, the Warriors have gone from being ranked dead last to number one, and up to second for overall game-day experience.
Two Mt Smart Stadium sellouts this year headline a 48 percent increase in average attendance.
"We want to be the most entertaining and engaging rugby league club in Australasia," said George. "We can achieve that by having a greater fan base here on game days."
From the bleachers to the boardroom, George navigated two potentially disastrous situations - the first, convincing an uncommitted Tuivasa-Sheck to re-sign for four years.
"He kept it real simple and kept it real basic," reflected the skipper. "We're a footy club - that's what he keeps saying - so let's just play some footy."
George also protected the players from off field distractions. The drama surrounding the club's sale could've seen the season unravel, but for his careful management.
"It was challenging for our staff and I'm really proud of the way they managed to work hard through that period," he said.
The 42-year-old believes the unique nature of the Warriors family will ultimately see them win the premiership.
"They hold a special place in the rugby league landscape in the NRL and if we can get success, we'll be the biggest powerhouse the NRL has ever seen."
In 365 days, George is confident he won't be here - he'll be in the stands of Sydney's ANZ Stadium, watching his team in the NRL Grand Final.
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