It was his jovial contribution to the banter between backs and forwards. It was a description I liked to dish out occasionally for a laugh but one I've had to re-evaluate given some of the try-scoring feats from players in the position.
The athleticism of this new breed is amazing and hopefuls wanting an NRL career must attain these skills.
The likes of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, with his exceptional footwork, speed and power, is a revelation. At such a young age, his growth will be keenly watched by the purist.
In contrast, the power of Manu Vatuvei conjures thoughts of Jonah Lomu trampling over the English - but he too has an athletic prowess most high jumpers would love to have. For someone so large, his uncanny ability to out-jump lighter opponents highlights the nature of today's game.
No longer does speed alone cut it for any player; it is clear that more skill is the new minimum to make it. Jarryd Hayne, the Morris twins, even the athletic ability of new boys Tim Simona and David Simmons from the West Tigers showed their ability to score improbable tries from airborne positions.
Other feats that spring to mind are the fleet-footedness and skill of front rowers today. In particular, Andrew Fifita, from the Sharks, who broke a defensive line, sidestepped the halfback and ran 60 metres to score a try. Rabbitoh George Burgess sidestepped a defender and then carried three more over the line.
Such agility, speed and brute strength within seconds shows the changing face of the sport. All players are expanding their individual game just to compete against those within their own club environments. It's the nature of professional sport where players expand their skill set on top of improving their current ones.
Like it or not, the SBW factor comes into play again. It's already documented what his playing ability did for my old joint, the Roosters.
His attraction also expanded the audience reach to new levels - and not just because of his skills but also his body shape, good looks and demeanour. Players want to emulate him because they see the skill but they also see more; they see the catalyst for change and that can't be bad.
