More than 18 months after making his Super Rugby debut as a shy teen, Staniforth is fighting for his future and determined to add to his tally of one Brumbies cap.

That means working with defence coach Peter Ryan to perfect his tackling technique and tapping into his on-field mongrel to give him a point of difference.

The 21-year-old lock is in his fourth Super Rugby pre-season campaign, with his contract set to expire at the end of 2016.

Since arriving at Brumbies HQ as an unassuming schoolboy, Staniforth has bulked up by 10 kilograms and is trying to shed his "tree-trunk legs" for a crack on the big stage.

"The other locks have a bit more mobility and maybe a bit more height than Tommy, the point of difference can be the reason you're picked or not," Ryan said.

"His point of difference is mongrel. We'd like to to exploit that even more than he's already got so maybe he's the sort of guy who's got a target on his back because everyone is trying to bash him.

"If that's the case, that will put guys off their game. His tackle technique isn't too bad, it's the way he gets to the tackle. He was probably trying a bit too hard."

Staniforth, a former Australian under-20s vice-captain, helped guide Royals to the John I Dent Cup premiership this year and confirmed his standing as a star on the rise.

His next challenge is to break into a Brumbies' second row that boasts Sam Carter, Rory Arnold and Scott Fardy.

Blake Enever continues to improve and Staniforth is fighting for a chance to prove his worth.

The hard-working forward is unfazed by failing to get on the field in a Super Rugby game last year, preferring to look at it as an opportunity to develop his game.

"I'm enjoying the chance to get fit, strong and fast. I really want to play this year and have a good crack," Staniforth said.

"I'm really grateful for having a chance to be around the boys, I love playing for Royals as well.

"To be honest I've got to work on my contact to improve my hitting and post contact. Just more physicality around the park and throw my weight around a bit.

"It was a little bit tough [to take a step back]. But a lot of people would die for the position I'm in. I've got to take a step back and realise I'm in a very lucky position."

Rather than dwell on his lack of Super Rugby game time this year, Staniforth turned his attention to helping the next generation of boys to follow in his footsteps.

The Canberra Grammar graduate was part of the Brumbies' partnership with Menslink, with players taking part in more than 50 events this year and reaching more than 7000 school kids.

"There are a lot of people with issues ... some boys won't open up [about problems in their lives], I'm really grateful Menslink do stuff," Staniforth said.

"I consider myself pretty lucky [even with less game time]. I'm a Canberra boy and I get to come and train with the Brumbies. In terms of mental strength, a lot of people have it tougher so I know I'm lucky to come in and lift weights or run around the field for work."