He is one of the NRL’s most experienced props, and at the age of 34, he is planning to re-invigorate both his form and general play, as he maintains his reputation as one of the NRL’s top props.
The QLD and Australian representative, Petero Civoniceva, is eager to continue his Origin career, one that is record-breaking, as well as leading the Panthers to a hopeful NRL premiership.
In an attempt to re-energise himself and solidify his stance in the NRL, Petero plans to bring back the footwork and passing that saw him wreak havoc for opposition defences with more than just his hard-running style.
Petero, who was worn out from the tough season stood down in the final game of the Four Nations, due to his disappointment at his own performances.
After having a look at his own performances in the Four Nations and his game in general, he decided that changes were needed, thus the plan for him to bring back assets from the past.
In what will be an incredible 13th season in first-grade, Petero is still aiming for Test selection, because in his eyes, if he gives up that dream, then he is selling himself short.
Petero will also become the first front-rower to play an astonishing 300 games.
“It’s always important to set some high goals and high standards, and that’s got to be what everybody wants – to wear those rep jerseys, whether it’s State of Origin or playing for your country,” the veteran said following yesterday’s gruelling two-hour training session at Wanda Beach.
“If you set those goals, you’re going to try and do whatever it takes to get there. That’s important for me, to keep aiming high and hopefully get the best out of my last few years in the NRL.”
Having re-signed with Penrith last year for a further two seasons, Civoniceva acknowledges the fear of every player in his twilight: that the slide has begun.
“It’s a possibility,” he said. “But in saying that, if you aim for any less you will be a beaten man.
“There’s going to be a guy who will work harder than you who will take your spot.
“That’s the reality and that’s the challenge that lies in front of every player. It’s definitely the challenge that lies in front of me for this season.”
Despite being at the age of 34, Petero believes that age is not a factor, and he’s out to prove it.
“As soon as I turned 30 I’ve always been dealing with the ‘too old’ tag, but that’s fine,” he said.
“I just know if I’m working as hard as I can on the field and at training, I’m going to be a good chance of playing good football.
“That’s all I’m concerned about. I’m not too worried about what anyone else thinks.”
Giving up his Australian jumper at the end of the Four Nations was a tough thing to do, but Petero is eager to put the work back in and get back to the level that has seen him remain in the squad for almost a decade.
“But I know I wasn’t playing the standard of football that’s required and other boys had, so it was only fair they got their opportunity,” he said.
“I’ve got to go back and do some hard work and try and push again to try and get back in there.”
But he knows that just punching out the hard yards is no longer enough.
“The game’s changed and I suppose a front-rower has to have that good yardage game, but also to have some other tricks in the bag now,” Civoniceva said.
“I know they’re there. It’s just probably one of those things where I’ve always concentrated on trying to build that momentum for the team.
“But I definitely know I’ve got those skills.
“It’s just about working hard and improving them.”