Sage has impressed in the early stages of the new season and has become a key part of the match day squad, starting the recent Guinness PRO14 derby with Cardiff Blues.
The 23-year-old has earned praise off Head Coach Bernard Jackman for the way he has performed after the disruptions of moving countries and learning a new brand of rugby last season.
And the Cape Town born back – who is Welsh qualified through his father – has revealed how keep his game simple has helped him flourish this campaign
“Last year was a tough adjustment,” said Sage. “It took a bit of growing up leaving the family back in South Africa. But I’ve had a good pre-season and I’m enjoying it now and feel comfortable.
“I went from the Lions to the Kings to the Dragons, so had three different systems to learn in a short space of time.
“It took some time and not being with your family has an effect on you. But it’s nice now, I feel settled and enjoy my rugby.
“When I came back in this season it was a fresh start,” he added.
“I missed pre-season last year, because I came from the South African window to Europe. I didn’t have one for two years and a good pre-season is important to get the body right.
“I’ve had a lot of growing up, being able to cope on your own, that’s the main thing. I’m a family orientated person, but now I am settled and I’m trying to get them to come over.
“In terms of my game, it’s about not over thinking it and doing the basics well. I try to keep it simple and when I first came here maybe I wasn’t doing that.
“I have settled into my role here and it has helped me a lot. Passing, catching and running – the basics.
“My confidence is improving and mentally knowing you can do it is important.”
Sage will now hope to be involved from the start as Dragons face RCM Timisoara Saracens in the European Challenge Cup opener on Saturday (kick-off 12.30pm BST).
“I’ve never been (to Romania) so it will be a nice experience and we have to get a win to get our European competition off to the right start,” he said.
“We want to get as many wins as possible and aim to get to the knockout stages.”
CLICK HERE to secure your tickets for the Dragons first home match in this year's competition against Northampton Saints on Friday 19 October, with early bird tickets available until midnight Monday.
