Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart protected Xavier Savage from the spotlight at the start of last year to help the best young fullback in the NRL's development.
Now it's time for the 20-year-old to take his game to the next level after a strong off-season that's seen him add invaluable muscle to his super-quick frame.
Savage has been named to start at fullback for the Raiders' opening pre-season trial - against the Canterbury Bulldogs at Moruya on Sunday.