Damien Cook is beginning to grow emotional over his exit from South Sydney, with the reality of his final days at the Rabbitohs sinking in.
One of the most esteemed hookers in the club's history, Cook has two further games in South Sydney colours after Saturday night's clash with Newcastle.
Squeezed out by the Bunnies and bound for St George Illawarra, Cook has been one of the Rabbitohs' best since making the call on his future in June.
But a nine-year stint at Maroubra, where he went from reserve-grader to Test hooker, is almost over.
"It is a bit sad," Cook told AAP.
"It did (sink in) a little at the start of last week, when we realised we can't make finals and it was all ruled out.
"I started to realise and started counting down the games in this jersey, which was a bit sad.
"There will be emotions in the weeks to come when it all finishes up. Because I have loved every moment.
"This jersey has given me so much. I want to make sure I finish in the best possible way."
Cook is one of several Bunnies preparing for their final few games at the club, with Tom Burgess also set to return to England at year's end.
Out of sorts at the start of this season and at one stage dropped to NSW Cup, Cook has been close to the Rabbitohs' best for the past few months.
"I don't know what really clicked. As a team, we couldn't get any worse," the 33-year-old said.
"It was a tough time that we went through. I've started to play some good footy, but it was off the team as well, with everyone doing their job.
"I haven't been through anything like it with the rollercoaster it has been on and off the field."
Saturday night's game also looms as an emotional one for Jacob Gagai, as he prepares to face his brother Dane for the first time.
A Rabbitohs backline reshuffle will have Tyrone Munro return from injury to replace Richie Kennar, but the two Gagais still find themselves on opposite sides of the field.
Jacob Gagai has been one of the feel-good stories of the season, with a breakout year at age 27.
And he largely thanks his brother for motivating him to keep persisting.
"He said not to give up," Jacob said.
"There have been plenty of times where I thought about walking away from the game, but he has always stuck by me and knew I had abilities.
"He has been a massive part of getting me to where I am this year. I'm glad I stuck at it, because it got me to where I am now."
