Harris-Tavita set for defining NRL season

Chanel Harris-Tavita's perpetual quest for improvement extends far beyond rugby league.

The Warriors playmaker has sworn off alcohol for 100 days and counting, regularly details his emotions, reads voraciously and writes a blog.

The flow-on effects for the off-contract 22-year-old, who will make his debut for the Maori All Stars on Saturday night, could take his on-field output to a new level in a crucial season.

Harris-Tavita recently opted against accepting an extension at the Warriors, wanting to test his worth on the market and earn a new deal through his performances.

Foot and pectoral issues restricted him to 11 NRL appearance in 2021.

"For the past couple of months, I've been trying to really look after my body and staying sober has helped with that," he told AAP.

"I just want to feel like I've deserved to sign a contract.

"The last couple of seasons I haven't been able to play to my potential."

The Auckland-born halfback's decision to abstain from alcohol for the long-term revolves around feeling "like I'm a much better person when I'm sober".

"I've been struggling the last few weeks because I still go out with the boys; I like to go out and listen to good music and have a good time," he said.

"But I'll just say no when they offer me a drink and they're really supportive.

"As an athlete, you've got to be on top of your game week-to-week and especially during the pre-season. It's just better for my body.

"I'm staying away from alcohol as long as I can. I'd like to give it up forever (but) it's something that I don't want to think too far ahead.

"It's just taking it one day at a time and I think over time it will get a lot easier to say no to a vodka lime soda."

On his Simplessons blog, which launched last year,