ADAM Cook didn't need a guarantor when he decided to sign for Leigh Leopards but his new teammate Aaron Pene helped seal the deal.
So too did the prospect of running out at Leigh Sports Village in front of a partisan home crowd.
Cook, preparing for a first Christmas outside his native Australia, has settled in well since arriving in the town last month.
Not that the former Canberra Raider, who celebrated his 25th birthday three weeks ago, had any doubts about his massive career switch.
"I have a few mates at Warrington, like Albert Hopoate and Josh Smith," explained Cook of his new Super League connections.
"And I know Aaron from a previous club," he said of their time at Queensland Cup outfit, Redcliffe Dolphins.
"When I got the offer from Leigh I called Aaron and we spoke a bit about what to expect.
"Davie Armstrong reached out as well even though we didn't meet until I got here.
"The first thing they talked about is the fans and how passionate they are at Leigh. Rugby league means a lot to these people.
"So, I can't wait to run out in front of them and rip in. I want to embrace everything about the club and hopefully bring a Premiership here.
"Coming to Super League was always something I wanted to do. I actually thought it would happen a bit later in my career.
"But things change and there is more of an opportunity for me now after being in and out of first grade back home."
Cook, who can play full-back, will be jousting with Gareth O'Brien for a half-back slot alongside Lachlan Lam.
"I watched Lockie when he played for (Sydney) Roosters," said Cook of the Papua New Guinea international.
"He is a great player.
"Anything I can add to his game and he can add to mine, we can be a dangerous combination."
Leigh fans will get their first look at Cook in a yet to be confirmed warm-up game at the end of next month.
For now, he's relishing proving his worth to his new teammates.
"I like to think I can control games and make sure we are finishing our sets properly," he explained.
"Then when I get a chance in attack to execute them and take the opportunities. I did a lot of training in the off season and got a decent time in testing.
"My goal next year is to play consistent football for such a great club. I am grateful to be here so I hope I fulfil my role and do it to the best of my ability."