He was part of the Canberra Raiders' last premiership, scoring two tries in the decider way back in 1994.
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But former-winger Ken Nagas is confident the current edition of the Green Machine can end the drought.
Nagas was named Woden Valley Rams head coach on Thursday, taking over from ex-Raiders teammate Lincoln Withers.
It comes as Canberra prepares to host its biggest ever game of rugby league - an historic preliminary final at Canberra Stadium against either South Sydney or Manly on Friday week.
Nagas can feel the excitement building in the capital, but backed Raiders coach Ricky Stuart to keep a lid on the hype.
He also backed the Raiders in their bid to make their first grand final since 1994 - the year Nagas helped Canberra to a 36-12 victory over Canterbury.
Nagas said the week off came at the perfect time after a tough six-week stretch that included Melbourne twice, the Sydney Roosters, Manly and Cronulla.
He didn't have a preference for who the Raiders faced because they hadn't beaten either the Rabbitohs or the Sea Eagles this year.
"You've got to be in it to win it and they're well in it," he said.
"They've definitely got the side to do it, just got to play things cool, don't get too over excited in the next week.
"Rick will keep a lid on things and when it's time to do some hard work he'll get them up for it."
Nagas has signed on to coach the Rams next year, taking over after Withers won the 2018 Canberra Raiders Cup.
He was Withers' assistant and has also been an assistant for the Raiders under-20s in the past as well.
"[Withers] obviously played a big part in their first premiership for a long, long time last year," Nagas said.
"Big shoes to fill, but I'll put my spin on things and hopefully we can compete next year."
NRL PRELIMINARY FINAL
September 27: Canberra Raiders v South Sydney or Manly at Canberra Stadium, 7.50pm. Tickets available next week.