Wales captain Morgan delivered his verdict after being crowned Wales men’s player of the year for the second time by the Welsh Rugby Writers’ Association (WRWA).
Morgan, who also scooped the award in 2023, collected the prize from Tandy himself in Cardiff and admitted the prospect of a fresh chapter under the new national coach has given him renewed energy following a gruelling campaign.
"I am really excited and looking forward to the start and Steve coming in. They are exciting times, especially after the win in the summer," Morgan said.
"We have the talent in Wales and within the regions, so we are looking forward to regrouping, learning new things, getting better and trying to get closer as a group to put in the performance."
The 25-year-old endured a punishing 2024-25 season in which he played eight times for Wales without a victory, stretching the side’s miserable losing run to 18 Tests before it was finally snapped in Japan while Morgan was away on British and Irish Lions duty.
"It was a tough year with the way that the games went but I was chuffed to watch the boys get the win in Japan," he reflected.
"That was pretty special. It's been challenging but we have worked hard as a group and been tight."
Welsh Young Men’s Player of the Year Blair Murray is given his award by WRWA chairman, Alex Bywater. Pic: Huw Evans Agency
Despite the bleak campaign, Morgan’s leadership and relentless performances stood out.
His Lions call-up was recognition of his individual quality, and he featured in the second and third Tests of the series against Australia.
His impact was decisive. In Melbourne, a controversial late clear-out by Morgan – described as “perfect” by former referee Nigel Owens – created the platform for Hugo Keenan’s dramatic match-winning try as the Lions sealed the series with a game to spare.
“The Lions was a great experience and I enjoyed being with the coaches and playing group. They were a great bunch of boys and we built bonds and made friendships for life,” Morgan said.
“To be a part of it was pretty special. I learned loads of new things playing with other back-rowers.
“I tried to develop my game and see what improvements I can make based on how they play, train and their off-field habits.
“It gives you a massive drive to carry on improving and play to the best of my ability.”
Kate Williams picks up her reward from former Wales international Philippa Tuttiett. Pic: Huw Evans Agency
Those lessons, Morgan believes, will only strengthen Wales as they prepare for a new cycle under Tandy.
The former Ospreys coach, who has built a strong reputation in defence roles with Scotland and the Lions, is seen as the man to reset Welsh rugby after a turbulent two years.
And while Morgan admitted lifting the WRWA honour again was a proud personal achievement, he made clear his focus is on collective progress.
"It takes great guts and determination from the team, and it's been a team game where everyone has contributed so that's the most pleasing thing," he said.
The awards also recognised achievements across Welsh rugby.
Kate Williams was named women’s player of the year after a standout campaign for club and country, while Scarlets wing or full-back Blair Murray picked up the men’s young player of the year award following a prolific try-scoring season and his breakthrough at Test level.
In the domestic game, Jac Lloyd was named Super Rygbi Cymru player of the year after steering Newport to the title, capping a rapid rise that has also earned him a Dragons contract.
