Enigmatic Dragons recruit Atelea Vea has been touted as a backbone for the Dragons by his former football manager Frank Ponissi, who despite parting ways with Vea last year "cannot speak highly enough" of the 25-year-old.

On the eve of Vea's first major test in the Red V - a trial match against the Bulldogs tomorrow night - Ponissi pondered what could have been at the Storm if it wasn't for the second-rower's lack of opportunity.

Vea spent two injury-interrupted seasons at Melbourne, making 11 appearances for the club in 2011.

"It was mainly a lack of opportunities in a strong area - that was probably the only reason we didn't hold onto him for 2012," conceded Ponissi, Melbourne's general manager of football operations.

"He played a really invaluable part in our squad last year. At the time we had Sika Manu, Kevin Proctor, Adam Blair and Ryan Hinchcliffe all playing in those positions but he played some big games at the end of last year and really handled himself with distinction.

"He'll certainly add to the quality of depth to the Dragons' back row. To play 11 games in the team that became the minor premiers is a great achievement, and that in itself is a testament to his ability."

A change in clubs could prove all the difference in game time for Vea this season. Originally from the Shire and a St George junior, the Tongan is relishing his new opportunity and "homecoming" to family, and believes his newfound joy will transcend onto the field.

"I'm having fun, I like coming to training with the boys I'm playing alongside and I'm enjoying it," he said.

"Melbourne was a great experience and I learnt a lot there. I didn't have much luck with injuries but I still picked up a lot and I still believe that I'm a better player for it.

"It was a big decision going there - I was homesick and it was tough but I took so much out of it, on and off the field."