‘He’s an open book’: Zac Lomax wants to take his game to new heights under rookie coach Jason Ryles

Zac Lomax is a week away from making his club debut with the Eels, but it’s not the only new thing in his life.

The blue and gold jersey isn’t the only change for Zac Lomax this season, with the superstar Eels recruit teaming up with DrinkWise and ClubsNSW to promote responsibility and respect in clubs across the state.

The message comes just days out from the season kicking off in Las Vegas, with patrons at clubs and venues across NSW encouraged to drink in moderation to ensure everyone can enjoy the NRL competition safely and in a fun manner.

DrinkWise chief executive Simon Strahan (left) with Zac Lomax, who is keen to get the message across, and ClubsNSW chief corporate affairs officer Darren Flynn. Picture: Supplied

“Us NRL players want to create memories for all fans to be able to witness, and drinking in moderation just goes hand-in-hand with that to make sure people don’t miss anything that goes on the footy field,” Lomax said.

“I want to be able to be the guy that can create a memory for someone like that watching the game.

“We’re role models, so off the field we’re drinking in moderation and being respectful. That’s how I was raised by my mum and dad from a small country town.

“I’m a role model and I love to do that and be the guy that young kids and footy fans can look up to.”

Lomax’s move to Parramatta dominated the headlines last year almost as much as his shift to the wing did, and he’s hoping a change in scenery will be just as successful as what he achieved on the flank.

He scored a career-high 14 tries for the Dragons last year and also made his NSW and Australia debuts where he excelled on the right edge, although he will move back to centre and kick goals at his new club.

Lomax is coming off his best year playing on the right wing. Picture: Albert Perez/Getty Images

He’s now ready for a new challenge at Parramatta and can’t wait to take on the Storm in round 1 after dusting off the cobwebs in a trial game against the Tigers last week.

“I just want to take my game to the next level,” he said, keen to link up with halfback Mitch Moses again.

“I want to come in and be like a sponge at the Eels because it’s a fresh start.

“I want to take my game to a new level, and I feel like I’ll do that with the playing group that I’ve got there.

“It was really good to pull the jersey on (against the Tigers). It was a bit clunky and we had a whole heap of players out, but just being able to pull on the jersey was really cool.

“I just go out there and play footy. When you talk expectations, I’ve got no expectations. I just expect myself to be able to compete the best that I can, and that’s what I pride myself on.

“I feel if I’m doing that and I buy into the new coaching staff and that – which I will – that’s how you set yourself up for a good season.”

Lomax has been impressed by rookie coach Jason Ryles. Picture: NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

Lomax was signed by Brad Arthur, who is no longer at the club, but he’s been impressed by rookie coach Jason Ryles, who is ready to make a name for himself after learning off Craig Bellamy and Trent Robinson.

“He’s an open book,” Lomax said.

“He just wants us to learn every day, and everyone is open-minded.

“The best thing is that he’s got a group that is so willing to learn and jump into whatever that he brings on-board.

“He’s brought in a fresh face and heaps of new coaches, but he also knows what success looks like. He’s been a winner as a player and as assistant, and he’s been at a lot of successful systems.”