Harrison Graham, like many new dads to be, has found himself busy behind the scenes.
With partner Ashleigh Phillips due at the end of next month, there's been plenty of things to prepare on the homefront in Newcastle.
"I spent the day yesterday actually at home setting up lots of drawers, flat packs, cots and stuff like that. Getting the room all ready. It's pretty exciting," Graham told the Newcastle Herald at club headquarters during the week.
But before baby daughter arrives, the 25-year-old has also been focused elsewhere.
Graham, a Knights utility, finds himself playing his maiden NRL finals series.
It's been a case of major life events virtually colliding, but he's found the balance "sweet".
"To be honest as a male it's pretty easy for us, she's the one having to hold the baby for nine months," Graham said.
"It's probably more just a bit of a distraction off the field for me.
"I can focus on something at home and not worry too much about training or the game on the weekend.
"And when I'm here at training I can fully focus on that. It's been a good distraction."
And while Graham admits he wants parenthood to "hurry up in a way", onfield the Knights continue their 2026 campaign in New Zealand this weekend.
The Warriors await at Eden Park on Sunday (4:05pm), having accounted for the Rabbitohs in Sydney on September 11.
"We had that much belief going into that Rabbitohs game and we've got heaps of belief going into this week. One step at a time," Graham said.
He will wear the No.14 jersey again, primarily the back-up hooking option for first-choice rake Phoenix Crossland.
"Preparing for the game [finals week one] Danny Buderus talked with me, making sure we build it up and don't play it too early. It was a big occasion," Graham said.
"Running out for kick catch, seeing all the Newcastle fans out there was just unreal and I felt like I lifted again.
"The first time I got out onto the field was special, played 25 minutes and was happy as. Trying to do my part for the team and we got the chocolates."
Graham, born in Lismore and a Ballina Seagulls junior, landed in Newcastle at the end of last season after helping launch NRL franchise the Dolphins in 2023.
He clocked up 11 appearances in first grade across three campaigns and has already doubled that tally at the Knights with 17 caps so far.
Graham made his club debut in red and blue in round two.
"It's been a good challenge," Graham said.
"I just wanted to have a good pre-season and then see what happens off the back of that.
"I got my opportunity early against Manly and that just made coach [Justin Holbrook] believe that he can pick me whenever he needs."
The Queensland under-19 representative has welcomed the routine that comes with playing more NRL minutes.
"Playing more minutes this year has allowed me to be more consistent with my weekly routine," he said.
"Where in the past, maybe not sure you're playing until last minute or maybe playing cup [reserve grade] one week.
"Now I've been able to keep my head down and focus on what needs to be done, and hopefully coach picks me by the end of the week.
"It builds confidence and getting reps in at NRL level is key."
Graham also feels "settled" off the field.
"Here with my partner Ash, we've got a nice little rental, baby on the way. Pretty settled and love it here. It's a great spot to live, the club is going well, the town is going well. I'm really enjoying it," he said.
