Mogg centre of attention
05/11/04: Raiders centre Adam Mogg has set a goal to become one of the clubs most consistent players after committing himself to Canberra for the next three seasons.
Mogg still had a year to run on his existing contract, but the Raiders acted quickly to extend his stay until the end of the 2007 season.
A late-comer to the NRL, the powerful 27-year-old is excited about the chance to continue his development at the Raiders.
"Ive got goals I want to achieve here," Mogg said. "I played with one team [Redcliffe] in Queensland for five years and Im not in to bouncing around clubs. I know theres good coaches here, so Im prepared to commit for a long time.
"Ive had two full seasons with the Raiders now. Obviously the hardest thing is consistency. Thats going to be my goal over the next three years, to be one of the most consistent players in the club."
Mogg, who has played 40 of his 49 NRL games with the Raiders, said he had not considered leaving Canberra.
"I would have signed earlier but we had the break. During the off-season I just escaped to the Sunshine Coast for six weeks and relaxed with family and friends.
"Im keen to stay at the club. Matty Elliotts the best coach Ive ever had and Im learning a lot off [assistant coach] Terry Matterson as well. I like their coaching style, the way they approach things, the expectations they put on players. Im my harshest judge and they suit what Im looking for."
Mogg partnered Joel Monaghan in the centres for most of last season, but the Raiders have recruited strongly in the outside backs to cover for Monaghans departure to the Roosters.
Recruits Craig Frawley (Broncos), David Howell (Dragons) and Jermaine Ale (Roosters) have all put in claims for a centre spot, while Phil Graham and Jason Bulgarelli remain in the mix.
"I came here two years ago when Matty offered me the opportunity for a position [in the centres]. Ive worked hard and Ill continue to work, so hopefully it remains mine for the next three years.
"But theres a lot of young kids coming through and the Raiders have made some good signings. It just makes the place more competitive and thats more incentive to work a bit harder.
"Im going to enjoy it. I spoke to a few of the new blokes and theyre looking forward to cementing their spots as well. Its all guns blazing."
ADAM MOGG
DOB: 31/7/77, in Toowoomba, Qld
Junior club: Caloundra
Height: 189cm
Weight: 101kg
NRL Games: 49 (40 with the Raiders)
Previous Clubs: Parramatta Eels (2002)
Achievements:
2002: Made his NRL debut for Parramatta against Melbourne at Olympic Park on May 18. He played nine games for the Eels, mostly at fullback.
2003: Started the season at centre for the Raiders and scored 10 tries in 19 NRL games that year.
2004: Played 22 of Canberras 25 games last season, establishing himself as the clubs premier centre. He finished with 10 tries for the season
