Nick Palmer isn't you’re typical Super Rugby rookie. In fact, the civil engineer’s rugby journey is probably one of the more unique stories that you’ll ever hear. At 26, Palmer is midway through his first pre-season at the Waratahs and while it’s taken a little longer than he would have liked, the Newcastle junior said he wouldn't have it any other way. “To be honest, I think it’s helped massively. Particularly playing in the second row because it’s not really a young man’s game. I don’t think you really start hitting your straps until you’re 25 or 26, then you’re probably still not at your best until you’re 28 or 29,” Palmer told Rugby News. “At 18 or 19, most players probably aren't big enough or mature enough to run a lineout, but with a few extra years going through the system, it gives you some more time to grow and learn and I think I’ve really benefited from that.” At 15, Palmer played his first game of rugby as a fullback at Joeys in