Tomos Williams is determined to reach the next level following the toughest pre-season he has endured.
The scrum-half enjoyed a breakthrough season in 2015-16, making his first start for Wales Capital Region and racking up seven appearances.
Williams is now in the midst of his first full pre-season with the senior set-up and he hopes to reap the rewards.
He said: “Pre-season has been good - the first two weeks were tough, we then had a down week and now it’s back into it again.
“This is my first proper one with the senior set-up and it’s something I’ve really enjoyed so far.
“It’s been a lot tougher than what I’ve experienced previously but hopefully that will only improve both my all-round game and fitness.”
Williams will be competing with Lloyd Williams, Lewis Jones and Tavis Knoyle for the number nine jersey when the new campaign kicks-off.
Wales’ Capital Region begin their preparations against Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade and Bristol at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park on August 20.
On an individual level Williams is targeting greater game time while collectively the Blues are eyeing top tier European rugby.
He added: “I missed the first half of the season through but I got back into it and got a lot of game time so I was happy with it and just want to improve.
“It was a good season but now we are looking ahead with a new squad and hopefully we can improve.
“Hopefully we can climb the table, we obviously want to finish higher than last season and get into the top six for the European Champions Cup.”