Coaching role ... Gorden Tallis at Rabbitohs training. Photograph: Frank Redward / The Sunday Telegraph

It's why the former Test skipper couldn't stop himself embarking on a 700km trip to put some grunt into the Rabbitohs.

The Queensland legend's coaching career kicked off last Monday when the new Souths forwards mentor arrived in Coffs Harbour for a meet and greet with his pupils.

It wasn't long before the footballing fire in the Raging Bull had been stoked.

Tallis couldn't resist the series of simulated games at the Pacific Bay Resort. His voice boomed as Rabbitohs players were put through their paces. He even put his hand up for some shots at goal with halfback Chris Sandow and head coach Jason Taylor. Of course, big Gordie won.

Tallis has never been one for grandiose speeches but Souths know they will learn a lot from his competitive spirit.

Tallis is thriving. After three days revving up the Rabbitohs, the Maroons firebrand is back where he belongs.

"I went there a bit nervous because I didn't know what to expect, but seriously I loved it,'' said Tallis, who quit as a board member of the Cowboys to sign a two-year deal with Souths.

"Now I know where NRL coaches get the rush from. You say you wouldn't be a coach for quids but now I know why people want to do it. I wasn't meant to go. I only decided to join them on Monday, but I'm glad I went.

"I just enjoyed being back in the team environment, seeing the boys sledge each other and the funny blokes.

"To be honest, being on a board is not where I really wanted to be. The Souths offer made sense. It's great to be in a group of guys all pulling in the one direction.''

The genesis of Souths' approach can be traced to Tallis' role as an expert commentator for Fox Sports.

Watching a replay of his side, Rabbitohs coach Taylor listened to a post-match critique from Tallis in which the former Broncos enforcer noted how Souths would lift for a set of six and then be lazy at marker in the next set.

Taylor detected a coach in Tallis, a man possessing as much brain as brawn.

Tallis will continue to work with Fox Sports this season, but is likely to steer away from calling Rabbitohs games. He plans to make fortnightly appearances at Souths training.

"I'm not kidding myself. I'm only new to the club but if I can help the culture of the club in some way, that would be great.

"I've only been here for three days but there are some blokes that impress me.