Thursday 9 February 2017 16:21, UK
Martyn Ridyard says the time for talking is over as Leigh launch their Super League campaign on Friday against Castleford, live on Sky Sports.
Well, one more sleep and it's time for the big kick-off and to be honest, it's been a long, long wait for the big day.
This last week, though, has gone in a blur. First we had our media open day, then the press descended on Leigh Sports Village for the launch of the new rugby league season.
It was great to play host to all the clubs and captains from all the professional rugby league clubs and there was a real buzz about the place. I wasn't there to be interviewed as I was 'playing reporter' for Sky Sports News. I think Fraser Dainton could learn a thing or two from me… just kidding Fraser.
A weekend off, and then - game week. All our sponsors came down for the team photo and shirt presentation, and I must say we were all a bit giddy, anticipating the arrival of Friday.
New boy Curtis Naughton joined us this week on loan from Hull FC, a last-minute signing to fill in for James Clare who was on loan from Castleford.
James had a great game for us against Dewsbury in our friendly, right up until the point in the second half when he suffered one of those inexplicable and freak injuries. He wasn't under heavy pressure in a tackle but sadly damaged his anterior cruciate ligament. It looks like he'll be out for the season but we are all keeping our fingers crossed for a quicker return.
Injuries are always bad news but at this time of the year they can be heart-breaking. Your focus is on the new season and striving to reach personal and team goals, and then that knowledge that you won't be taking part can be devastating. Greg McNally, my team-mate and good friend, was injured in our friendly against Wigan, which will see him miss part of the season too. I am gutted for him.
I've not been immune myself. Last month, when we were on our warm-weather training camp in Lanzarote, I pulled my hamstring. It meant I missed out on both warm-up games, which was frustrating, but nowhere near as bad as having to miss part of your first Super League season.
I am lucky, I'll be in the squad to face Castleford and I can promise Leigh fans I will be giving it all I have got.
Many punters think we might struggle this year, but we have prepared well, which will give us as good as chance as possible. We are not striving for the top, or even silverware - though it would be nice - we have set our sights on one simple goal: to stay in Super League.
Now though, the time for talking is over. It's now time to let our actions speak. Roll on kick-off.
