Mason Grady has set his sights on individual and collective improvement as he looks ahead to the 2024-25 season in blue and black.
The powerful back returned to the Arms Park earlier this month following his summer exploits and he is already relishing the big kick-off.
Cardiff get their BKT United Rugby Championship campaign underway at home against Zebre on September 20, and after a 2023-24 season of near misses, Grady hopes the Blue & Blacks can kick on.
And having signed a new contract in the summer, Grady is determined to be part of the journey at CF10, alongside a group of teammates, he has excelled alongside throughout the ranks.
He said: “There were options elsewhere but I want to back Cardiff and I’ve got full belief that we can become a good side so I want to be part of that journey with the boys, with people I’ve grown up with.
“I’m really optimistic, especially how we played last season. Obviously we didn’t get the wins, but if you actually look at our performances we are a really good side.
"Hopefully the boys who have come in can give us that extra boost and we can turn those losing bonus points into wins. I think we have learned a lot from last season and hopefully it’s just the little things to turn those little calls and decisions that can win us games.
“I’m really optimistic for this season. I think we can do Cardiff proud.
“I am definitely more confident in my ability to play and back myself. I am really excited for the season ahead. Hopefully I can build on last season and have an even better season.”
Grady, who has been utilised by Cardiff on the wing and at outside centre, was moved inside to the number 12 jersey by Wales.
It was certainly a change for the powerful 22-year-old but not as big a change as you might expect. And moving forward, Grady is just happy to be on the pitch, whether in the red of Wales of blue and black.
He added: “Honestly, I really don’t mind what position I play. For me, it’s just a position you start off first phase and then the rest of the game, you can get into the game however you want.
“So for me there are different skills in every position, so I am quite enjoying learning all the different skills. I honestly don’t mind where I play
“I am personally comfortable playing whatever position. It’s just a number on your back.
"I am still going to try and do the same thing every game. Probably at 12, I carry a bit more and like to get a bit more gainline. At 13, I’ve got a bit more space to get around people. But I’m just enjoying playing rugby, to be honest. I don’t mind which position I play."
Grady was talking at Summerfest, as Cardiff launched their 2024-25 Macron kit. You can check out the new range HERE.
