Second season blues can often afflict a player the same way musicians can struggle with their second album.
Nick Williams is well aware of the problem as he prepares for his second season with the Blues and the dynamic loose forward from North Harbour is ready to make a major impact.
He is more aware of the opportunity he has to make a significant contribution to the Blues.
My maturity levels have been enhanced immensely and I realise where I am now is where most people dream of being. My perception of Super 14 is huge now and I'm sure there are far bigger things to come, said Williams.
The whole set up with a new Blues team, coaches and management is great. Some of the boys have been here five or six years but you wouldn't know if you came in as a new player as the culture of the team is outstanding.
The behind-the-scenes bonding and enjoyment the whole squad has enjoyed is starting to show according to Williams.
What happens off the field makes huge strides on the field. We are laughing more this year. Everyone is mixing and mingling which is tremendous.
We do the hard work on the field but when we are in the changing room we can relax which is awesome.
Williams has no illusions as to what he is up against to get a starting spot in the competitive loose forward mix.
He has enjoyed the opportunity to play at blindside in the pre season games and impressed with some thunderous defence in the Blues 43-5 win over the Western Force at Eden Park.
I am just going to take my opportunities whether that is at number six, eight, lock or halfback.
The environment helps lift me and I realise it is a huge step up from NPC and I am concentrating on lifting my overall workrate and becoming a more versatile player who can play more than one position.
By Peter White