The Huddersfield Giants are set to live the high life as they continue preparations for a Super League campaign that begins with a historic game in France.
The Giants will be Toulouse Olympique’s first opponents in the Super League on Saturday 12 February.
Sky Sports cameras will be present when Ian Watson kicks off his second campaign as a burgundy and gold coach.
The former Salford coach has beefed up his squad, with New Zealand hooker Danny Levi, signed from Brisbane Broncos, having recently flown to the UK.
The other internationals, half-backs Theo Fages and Tui Lolohea and mainstay Chris Hill, are also on board.
And frontrower Nathan Mason is back at his first club after stints with the London Broncos and Leigh.
Watson will take his team to Snowdonia, North Wales this week on a trip to the team.
An ascent of the famous mountain, which culminates at 1000 meters, is on the program before a hoped-for ascent in the ranking of the best after the disappointing ninth place this year.
Like Kiwi mainstay Seb Ikahihifo, second rower Ollie Roberts has returned to Huddersfield after two seasons on loan at Salford.
And the Ireland international, who turns 27 on Christmas Eve, aims to be in the frame to face Toulouse.
“With its importance for the game in France, it has the makings of being a very big game,” he said.
“And that will be a big test for us, because they will have advantages at home and everyone will be ready for that.
“I played in France against Catalans, and the crowd there creates a great atmosphere.
“As this is the first Super League game for Toulouse, I’m sure their supporters will make a lot of noise.
The Giants have pre-season dates at Dewsbury (Saturday, January 15), at home against Batley (Sunday, January 23) and at Hull KR (Sunday, January 30).
The above content is also available in the regular weekly edition of League Express, on newsstands every Monday in the UK and as a digital download. Click here for more details.
