Archive for Rugby League Forums  |
| Skyhunter |
Confirmed SigningsConfirmed Signings1. All articles must have a source to where they came from. 2. If it's from a Newspaper - Magazine it must be coppied in full and whenever possible date and page number. 3. If from the Net it must have a link. |
| Skyhunter |
Michael Witt signs until the end of 2009
Michael Witt signs new contract with Warriors In more NRL contract news NZ Warriors half Michael Witt has agreed to new terms and the young ultility will be at the Warriors until the end of 2009. This is a nice boost for the club, which was seen strong improvement in the halves with Witt - something severely missing since Stacey Jones left the fold. Witt has had time at the Eels and Manly and hopefully has found a happy home in NZ. Source: http://www.nrlnews.com/ This article was first posted on the 26th of April 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new forum |
| Skyhunter |
Jamie Soward signs a two-year deal with the Dragons
May 28, 2007 ST George-Illawarra has signed Jamie Soward after the young halfback was granted an immediate release from NRL club the Sydney Roosters today. Soward signed a two-year deal with the Dragons and will be available for Friday night's game against Brisbane Broncos at Oki Jubilee Stadium. Soward has spent the majority of the season playing second-fiddle to teenage halfback Mitchell Pearce at the Roosters, but received a late call-up to replace Pearce against the Sharks on Saturday night. The 22-year-old supplied the kick for both of the Roosters' tries as the NRL cellar dwellers came from behind to beat the Sharks 13-12 in extra-time. "Decisions of this nature are always made with the best interests of the player and the club in mind," Roosters chief executive Brian Canavan said. "We wish Jamie all the best for his future." AAP Source: http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,21807625-23214,00.html This article was first posted on the 29th of May 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new Forum. |
| Skyhunter |
Brent Tate signs with the Warriors until 2010
Brisbane Broncos outside back, Brent Tate has signed with the NZ Warriors until 2010. Tate will now join his brother in law Steve Price; who is married to Tate's sister Jo. Tate's wife is also of New Zealand heritage so the move is a good one for himself and the family. We wish Brent all the best in his new ventures. Source: http://www.nrlnews.com/ This article was first posted on the 3rd of June 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new Forum. |
| Skyhunter |
Brent Tate is a good signing for the Warriors he will give them alot in attack and he is very strong in defence also he has good pace.
This post was first posted on the 3rd of June 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new Forum. |
| Skyhunter |
Kennedy the $3 man
EXCLUSIVE By Phil Rothfield June 29, 2007 12:00am MANLY have secretly signed their former champion forward Ben Kennedy on a $3 contract as an insurance policy against injuries in the run home to the finals. Sea Eagles CEO Grant Mayer registered the contract with the NRL last night, paving the way for the club legend to make a comeback at any time. The money is a far cry from the $400,000-a-season he commanded only last year when he was widely regarded as the best and most damaging forward in the NRL. Mayer told The Daily Telegraph last night that coach Des Hasler had done the deal with Kennedy after weeks of discussions. "Ben told Des he still misses Manly dearly and would love to play again," Mayer said, "They've been talking about it for a long time. "He basically said to Des, 'If you're struggling with injuries at any time, don't forget about me'." Mayer said Kennedy had kept himself in great shape since retiring at the end of last season. "He hasn't trained a lot but he still looks great," Mayer said. "I guess you'd have to say it's a 1000/1 chance that he'd play but you never know what can happen in this game. It's fantastic security for us to know he's there as such a great fall-back option." Hasler said: "Ben's the sort of bloke who could do it, even after a long absence. "But to be honest, it's unlikely. I've got great back-rowers already and I've got great depth. "It's a nice safety guard. We've been discussing it for a while actually. It's been quite funny. Ben wanted a $5 deal, I said $1, so we met halfway. Seriously, how loyal is the bloke? He'd come back for sure if we needed him. "It's all very hypothetical at this stage but who knows what's going to happen down the track?" Mayer faxed the contract to the NRL's salary cap auditor Ian Schubert late yesterday, just 48 hours before the deadline. It is a similar move to that of the Melbourne Storm, whose coach Craig Bellamy signed retired forward Robbie Kearns to a $2 contract last year in case he was needed for the finals. Kennedy would not accept phone calls last night, but told one club official: 'I still love the club, I love all the players and always will. I'm still very loyal to them. If they need me I'm there." NRL boss David Gallop confirmed the contract had been registered last night. "It's a legitimate contract and it's been done before with Melbourne," Gallop said. "Any match payments he earns would go into their cap for next year." Kennedy may initially struggle if he returns from a nine-month break but one source had no doubt he would be capable of again holding his own in the NRL. "Lots of players spend nine months on the sidelines with injuries and come back," one Manly official said. "A lot of people think Ben retired one year too early, anyway." Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,21986661-5001023,00.html This article was first posted on the 30th of June 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new Forum. |
| Skyhunter |
I think most manly fans would have BK back in a heartbeat with his damaging runs for the line. He was one of the best attacking forwards in the game some would say he left the game one or two years to early. One thing for sure Bk would give Manly a big boost and a good chance of making it seven grand finals for the club. As for Bk playing for the Eagles again this year that remains a mystery ?.
This article was first posted on the 30th of June 2007 and has been moved from the NRL forum to this new Forum. |
| parragirl |
JARRYD HAYNE RE-SIGNS
12 December 2007 Jarryd Hayne has re-signed with the Pirtek Parramatta Eels, ensuring he remains at the Eels for the 2008, 2009 and 2010 seasons. 
Source: http://www.parraeels.com.au/news/news1672.asp |
| parragirl |
That's great news im so happy Jarryd has re-signed with the Eels. It was a worry for awhile that he may go to souths but im happy he has decided to stay with Parra. Now all Parra needs to do is to re-sign Krisnan Inu. |
| parragirl |
Payne re-signs with Cowboys
December 14, 2007 12:00am NORTH Queensland vice-captain Aaron Payne has re-signed with the NRL club for another four years. Cowboys boss Peter Parr said securing Townsville junior Payne until the end of the 2011 NRL season was a major coup. "We are delighted to have extended Aaron's tenure at the club,'' he said. The 25-year-old hooker made his NRL debut at the Cowboys in 2002 and was one of the first players to come through the club's development system. Cowboys coach Graham Murray said Payne's re-signing was a "significant move'' for the club. "To have a player of his calibre who is an integral part of the team re-sign is a big plus leading into the new season,'' he said. Payne has played 110 first grade games for North Queensland. Source: http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,22923735-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Kouparitsas signs until 2010
December 21, 2007 12:00am BULLDOGS forward Nick Kouparitsas has re-signed with the NRL club for another two years. The 23-year-old, who's previous deal ended next season, has now secured his future in blue and white until the end of 2010. "There is no doubt that Nick has got better and better with each season," said Dogs coach Steve Folkes. "He is now a genuine running backrower who also makes an impact in defence. Kouparitsas made his NRL debut in 2006 before establishing himself as a regular first grader last season, playing 18 games. "I've had a great go at the Bulldogs over the last couple of years and there was no hesitation in extending for a couple more," Kouparitsas said. "I really feel at home at the Bulldogs and I can't wait for season 2008 to start." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,22958780-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Boom rookie not sure about life in the big city
Multi-talented ... new Roosters signing Lachlan Hall. Photograph: Glenn Barnes By Robert Craddock December 28, 2007 12:00am THE Sydney Roosters have outbid the Broncos to sign a boom young halfback from Ipswich - but he has signed only a one-year deal because he's unsure he'll like life in the big city. Lachlan Hall, a 17-year-old who represented Queensland Schoolboys at rugby union last season, resisted an approach from the Broncos to join the Roosters on a one-year deal. He has already been training with the Roosters for the past five weeks. "I have only signed for one year because I wanted to see whether I liked it down there," Hall said. "I also felt like a bit of a change. The Broncos have said they could be interested in me if I come back. So far I have enjoyed it. They are a professional club yet quite relaxed and Brad Fittler is a good coach." Hall's signing shows how aggressive the Roosters have been recruiting at both ends of the player spectrum. His friends joked yesterday that the Roosters had now signed the big three - O'Meley, Mason . . . and Hall. The young Queenslander has formed a close bond with another rising Roosters halfback in Mitchell Pearce, son of former international Wayne. "Even though we play in the same position I get along really well with him," he said. Hall has set himself the goal of consolidating a position with the Roosters' under-20 side next season. A multi-skilled sportsman who also excels at cricket, Hall has been playing at the Queensland Country Week cricket carnival this week. Ipswich Grammar School has a distinguished history of producing quality footballers, including the Walters family. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,22978015-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Storm snatch promising junior
Family men ... Storm recruit James Woolford and his uncle Simon Woolford. Photograph: Mark Graham By James Hooper December 30, 2007 12:00am NRL premiers Melbourne have completed a major signing coup by poaching promising Canberra junior James Woolford, the nephew of former Raiders captain Simon Woolford. Tagged with the unfortunate nickname 'Bacteria' to compliment his uncle's moniker of 'Germ', Woolford junior's first choice was to remain with the Raiders. The blue-blood pedigree hooker, 17, will complete his Year 12 studies in Melbourne after signing a three-year contract with the Storm. The Raiders' SG Ball and NSW under 17s hooker last season, Woolford has been snapped up by the Storm to ply his trade in the new national under-20s competition as the understudy to Kangaroos hooker Cameron Smith. "To be honest, he wanted to stay in Canberra because he's only young and he was a little bit sceptical about moving so far away,'' Woolford Sr said. "At the end of the day the Raiders probably expected him to stay, but then other clubs came out and showed more interest in him so the decision was basically made for him. "I know he was a little bit disappointed in the level of interest Canberra showed in him as opposed to the Storm and the Dragons. "But it's good that it's worked out the way it has. I don't want to talk him up too much but he has got a fair bit of ability and I know he's certainly got the attitude to be successful. "He could do a lot worse than going to the Storm for the next three years, where he'll be coached by Craig Bellamy and have Cameron Smith teaching him all the tricks of the trade.'' A Young junior who is the son of Simon's brother Stephen, Woolford's new teammates were quick to tag him "Bacteria''. It was Bellamy who first came up with "Germ'' when he coached Woolford Sr in the Canberra juniors in the early 1990s. "The boys have given me Germ, Virus and Bacteria, I didn't really get a choice in the matter,'' James Woolford said. "To be honest, Simon and I are very similar. I've learned plenty of stuff from him and he's always only too happy to give out a few pointers. "Melbourne was actually my last preference, I really wanted to stay in Canberra because it was close to home. "But then the Melbourne offer was much better and the more I thought about it, the opportunity really appealed.'' Bellamy described the family similarities as uncanny. "James has certainly got Simon's confidence but he hasn't quite got his brashness, which is a nice change.'' Canberra general manager Don Furner said while the Raiders were interested in keeping Woolford the Storm offer was simply too lucrative. "He's a good kid but we just can't go paying that sort of money,'' Furner said. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,22985208-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Inu signs on for two more years
Contract extension ... Krisnan Inu January 22, 2008 12:00am YOUNG Parramatta star Krisnan Inu has signed a two-year contract extension that will keep him at the NRL club until the end of 2010 season. The Kiwi international said he believed the club would be a strong contender for grand finals in the coming seasons after losing to eventual premiers Melbourne in last year's preliminary final. The signing is a further boost for the Eels after stitching up a deal to keep fellow backline young gun Jarryd Hayne at the club. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,23090822-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
This is great news for Parramatta first Jarryd Hayne re-signs and now Krisnan Inu. I admire their loyalty they have shown to the Parramatta club by taking a pay cut as they could of easily taken more money from other clubs like Souths Sydney who were keen on getting Jarryd Hayne and The Sydney Roosters, Bulldogs, Gold Coast, Brisbane and Cronulla who all showed interest in Krisnan Inu. But it's great news they didn't go to any of those other clubs and are remaining with Parramatta for a further two years. |
| parragirl |
Broncos re-sign rising star
January 22, 2008 THE Brisbane Broncos have extended the contract of boom youngster Dave Taylor until the end of the 2009 NRL season. Regarded as one of the hottest young players in the game, Taylor has opted to extend his contract with the six time premiers by one season rather than take a multi-year deal. Taylor, who has been earmarked as a future Australian forward, believes it's in his best interest to prove himself before taking a long-term contract. But he says his future lies with the Broncos. Taylor finished last season in blockbusting form, sparking calls from former players for the club to offer him a life-time contract. However Taylor is happy to continue to learn his craft under coach Wayne Bennett and says his decision to opt for a one-year extension had nothing to do with money. http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23090488-23214,00.html |
| parragirl |
It's Matty, Not Fatty
Chip off the old block ... Matt Vautin. Photo: Phil Lutton 
Matthew with his old man fatty Paul Vautin 
Story & Photo By : Phil Lutton Brisbane Times Wednesday 16 th January '08 Matt Vautin looks up to his famous dad, Paul. Sort of. At just 17, the new signing for the Gold Coast Titans has a maturing appreciation of what his old man, the Manly and Queensland legend, accomplished on the football field. But in terms of physical stature, that relationship is inverted. Standing six-foot three inches tall and with nary a red hair in sight, Matt isn't exactly a carbon copy of the ginger-topped Footy Show front man. "He's (Matt) six foot bloody three. Fatty reckons the milkman got in there somewhere," says Titans junior recruitment director Tom Searle, who first saw Matt playing for New South Wales at a schoolboy carnival in Townsville before snaring his signature last year. The lack of a family resemblance is equally as puzzling to Matt, who says the origin of his extended frame is somewhat of a riddle in the Vautin household. "I don't have the red hair and he's (Dad) about five foot nine and I'm about six foot three. It's a mystery. No one has got any idea where I got the height from," says Matt. While father and son differ greatly in appearance, the burning ambition on the field remains the same. After playing rugby for St Luke's Grammar School until he graduated last year, Matt is chasing his football dream on the Gold Coast, where he hopes to make his mark in the centres. Following the move from Sydney's northern beaches, where he was linked to Manly, Vautin 2.0 will have his first chance to impress as part of the Titans' 30-man SG Ball squad in two trial games later this month. "I've played rugby league since I was 10. At the school we didn't play rugby league, I played rugby union. So I played rugby union for a few years and I wasn't the biggest fan but it was just a bit of fun. I was a fullback," says Matt, who has moved in with dad Paul at Broadbeach. "I'm deadly serious about football. It's been really good, a really good experience. But it's been a bit boring up here by myself. I don't really know anybody yet. I came up and left all my friends in Sydney." Despite growing up in Blues-territory, Matt says he's always been a Maroons supporter. The move north will give him the chance to follow in his dad's footsteps. Matt said his dad had never pressured him into lacing up the boots but was thrilled with his decision to pursue a career in the game that made 'Fatty' famous. "He doesn't put too much pressure on. He's always been supportive and giving me tips. He's always wanted me to do this. But in saying that, he's always said do what you want to do. It's up to you."Vautin senior has pulled a few strings to help Matt harden up his lanky frame. The youngster is doing one-on-one sessions with Titans trainer and former Queensland hardman Trevor Gillmeister two days a week, with immediate and often messy results. "Gilly's a great mate of mine and an integral part of the Gold Coast club. He's taken time out to help Matt," said Paul Vautin. "He had Matt spewing today so that's a good sign. He had him on the treadmill and he had an up and under, so that's good." While Matt is now seeking his dad's tutelege on all matters football, it wasn't that long ago that the brash youngster wasn't interested in the advice his father had to dispense. "I've never pushed him. He just does his own thing," Vautin snr said. "He's making his own way. I'm there to help him as he needs help. As he gets older he comes to me more for a bit of help. "I said to him once when he was 10 - 'Mate you can always come to me for a bit of help'. And he said 'Dad, what would you know?'. "I said, 'Mate! Come on! The 80s!'" Despite growing up on the beach all his life, Matt won't be taking advantage of the Broadbeach waves lapping on his doorstep. "I can't surf. I'm unco. I run. If I can I'll run down the road or something like that," he said. And though his dad has never pushed him into football, he is pushing to get him out of the house and into the workforce or study. "Dad is pretty adamant that I get a job soon. But I'm riding it out as long as I can and having a bit of a holiday." http://www.ourfootyteam.com/news_....php#mattVautinSignsTitans160108a |
| parragirl |
Ryan re-signs for Dogs
February 4, 2008 Bulldogs skipper Andrew Ryan has re-signed with the NRL club for a further three years. The 29-year-old, who has captained the Dogs since leading them to victory in the 2004 grand final, today confirmed his future at the club until the end of 2011. The re-signing is a major boost for the club, who have lost a host of top level talent in recent years, including Willie Mason, Mark O'Meley and Braith Anasta all to the Sydney Roosters. "I'm very happy to be running around with the Bulldogs for a few more years yet," he said. "I've been with the club for six years and it was always my first preference to stay with the Bulldogs for more years to come. "It's a great club, from the players, to the coaching staff to the administration. "We've got a very enthusiastic and committed squad and will be giving the NRL competition a real shake over the next few years." After three years at Parramatta, Ryan made his debut for the Bulldogs in 2003 and has played 120 first grade games for the club. Bulldogs coach Steve Folkes said: "Andrew is a true professional on and off the field. He hasn't been a NSW and Australian representative over the past few years for nothing." http://www.leaguehq.com.au/news/n...ogs/2008/02/04/1202090309827.html |
| parragirl |
Wests Tigers re-sign Marshall
Good news for Tigers fans...Benji Marshall has signed until the end of the 2009 season. Picture: Robb Cox. 
The Wests Tigers have also signed Leeds and Great Britain forward Gareth Ellis. February 08, 2008 12:00am WESTS Tigers today confirmed the re-signing of star five-eighth Benji Marshall on top of the acquisition of Great Britain Test forward Gareth Ellis. Marshall, off contract at the end of 2008, agreed to a one-year contract extension with both parties hoping to formalise a longer deal further down the line. The Kiwi international, who has had a wretched run with injury, said he was confident he had overcome the shoulder troubles which which have plagued his career. "We are very happy Benji has agreed to stay with the club," Wests Tigers recruitment manager Warren McDonnell said. "The club is very confident about Benji's future and that he can return to his 2005 form and is now over his injuries. "The one-year extension gives Benji and Wests Tigers some breathing space and give him the chance to get back on the field. "We are very much still talking to his manager about his future." Ellis will join the Tigers in 2009 on a three-year deal with the 2007 Golden Boot nominee to finish up with reigning Super League champions Leeds at the end of this year. The 27-year-old has played 19 Tests for Great Britain and said he was looking forward to testing himself in the NRL. "This has been a life-changing decision based on my personal career goals to play at the elite level in both Super League in the UK and the NRL in Australia," Ellis said. "I want to mount the personal challenge of proving myself in the NRL with the Wests Tigers, who have impressed me with their ambition to repeat their Grand Final success of 2005." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,23179968-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Waterhouse signs until 2011
February 07, 2008 12:00am FORMER Test lock Trent Waterhouse has re-signed with Penrith until the end of the 2011 NRL season. The new deal comes as a welcome relief for the rangy backrower as he looks to get his career back on track after a horror 2007. Waterhouse was sidelined for four months of last season after breaking his leg in two places while scoring a try against Gold Coast in round four. He returned to play the final four games of the season. The local junior, who turned 27 last month, said he hoped the new three-year deal would lead to him becoming a one club player after making his first grade debut with the Panthers in 2002. "I'd like to think so, and it looks likely. I'll be 30 at the end of this contract," Waterhouse said. "This is the only club I've ever been at and I'm happy here. "And the future is looking good with our current set-up, the players we have and the kids coming through." The Panthers play their opening trial against Parramatta in Albury on February 22. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,22049,23174598-5006066,00.html |
| parragirl |
Patten re-signs for Bulldogs
February 15, 2008 BULLDOGS boss Malcolm Noad says the re-signing of fullback Luke Patten shows reports about the NRL club's rapid demise have been greatly exaggerated. Patten gave the besieged club come much-needed good news ahead of Sunday's future-shaping board elections after agreeing to extend his current deal for a further three years. Despite the uncertainty at Belmore with three groups vying for places on the nine-man board, 28-year-old Patten has put pen to paper to a new deal which will see him remain a Dog until the end of the 2011 season. The announcement followed the re-signing of captain Andrew Ryan last month, with both contract extensions bright spots in an otherwise horrific off-season for the Dogs which has seen Willie Mason quit the club and one of the ugliest build-ups to a board election in NRL history. Chief executive Noad told Fox Sports News he would be lying if he didn't admit the past fortnight of in-fighting had been difficult, but said the retention of Patten and Ryan showed the club was not in dire health. “We're faring pretty well, when you look at the announcement made this morning about Luke Patten re-signing with the club until the end of 2011 on the back of Andrew Ryan's announcement that he was staying for the same period,” Noad said. “So it doesn't seem to be affecting the players. “There's a lot of conjecture about the club going down the toilet, but you look at the ways the players actually feel about the place, it's a very exciting atmosphere and they're looking forward to the kick-off.” Patten joined the Dogs in 2001 from St George Illawarra, representing City Origin twice in 2002 and 2004 and winning a premiership with the club in 2004. He said the turmoil surrounding the club's board had not affected the players' preparations for the 2008 season. “It hasn't troubled us at all, and I've said to a few people that the board don't come out on the field and play with us so it's not an issue for us,” he said. “I've read a lot that the club's in crisis and that's just crazy you know, if the club was in crisis I wouldn't be thinking of staying here. “We've had a great pre-season and we're really looking forward to the season so there'll be no hiccups for us. “I read this morning that Steve Mortimer was saying the club's bigger than all of us so at the end of the day as long as the club goes on and everything's run smoothly then that's the way to go.” http://www.foxsports.com.au/story/0,8659,23218677-23214,00.html |
| parragirl |
Ben Smith Commits Long Term To The Eels
Sunday 17 February 2008 Pirtek Parramatta Eels centre Ben Smith says he hopes to be a one club man after agreeing to a new four year deal with the club. 23 year-old Smith, who has scored 25 tries in 58 matches for the Eels since making his debut aged 19 in 2004, will now remain at Parramatta until at least the end of 2012. “The future looks pretty exciting for the Eels and I’m very happy to know I’ll be a part of it,” Smith said. “We’ve got a great squad and a top quality coaching staff and that’s always a good mix to have. “I’ve spent a great four years here and life at Parramatta is all I’ve known since coming to Sydney, the club’s been good to me and I’m glad to be able to repay that faith. “I think of myself as a one-club man and now the deal’s done I can just focus on getting myself back to full fitness and playing some footy.” The Werris Creek product is currently on the comeback trail from shoulder and knee reconstructions and is set for a return to action early in the new season. Eels head coach Michael Hagan says Smith’s signing was an important one for the future of the club. “We made no secret of the fact keeping Ben was our next goal after securing Jarryd Hayne and Krisnan Inu,” Hagan said. “So it’s a great outcome for the club to get the deal done because Ben adds plenty to the footy team both on and off the field. “It’s also very pleasing to have gotten the deal done quickly and it’s a credit to Ben and his manager Darryl Mather that we managed to do so.” Known for his maturity despite his youth, Smith is a member of the Eels leadership group and is a tireless worker for charity. “This is very good news for the Parramatta Eels club,” Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Denis Fitzgerald said. “Ben is an outstanding young player and an outstanding young man, he’s a member of our leadership group and he’s very keen to get back on the field after an unlucky run with injury. “I’m sure once he does he’ll waste no time showing coach Michael Hagan that he’s again ready to play a significant role in Parramatta’s quest to go one game further than last season.” http://www.parraeels.com.au/news/news1692.shtml |
| Skyhunter |
Good news for the Eels and their supporters with Ben Smith signing a new contact keeping him at the club until the end of 2012. |
| parragirl |
Sammut re-signs for two years
Re-signed...Jarrod Sammut. / The Daily Telegraph February 26, 2008 12:00am PENRITH have signed promising utility Jarrod Sammut to a new deal that will keep him at the NRL club until 2010. Sammut, 21, extended his current contact by a further two years despite reported interest from rival NRL club New Zealand Warriors. "It's a great signing for the club," Panthers general manager Michael Leary said today. "We're always talking about a pathway to the NRL for local juniors - and this is yet another example of that. "Jarrod will be a great utility player for us." Sammut broke into the Panthers' first grade side late last year and impressed in place of injured fullback Rhys Wesser. He is locked in a battle with new recruit Joe Williams for the Panthers' halfback spot made vacant by Craig Gower's departure, and said he saw his future at the club in the halves. "I'd like to see myself playing somewhere in the halves, whether it be six or seven, but I think just anywhere at the moment - to be on the park is a good feeling," Sammut said. Sammut was reportedly being targeted by the Warriors as a replacement for their fullback Wade McKinnon who suffered a season-ending knee injury last week. But he said he always wanted to remain with his junior club. "I did want to stay at Penrith - I just feel comfortable here with all the facilities and the people and just growing up in the local juniors," Sammut said. "I couldn't really see myself going anywhere." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23278589-5012662,00.html |
| parragirl |
Stewart snares $2.5m jackpot
Hot property ... Brett Stewart has re-signed with Manly for five years on a lucrative deal. / The Sunday Telegraph By Chris Wilson | March 02, 2008 12:00am HIS credentials as one of the country's most eligible bachelors will certainly soar. After four months of negotiations, Manly fullback Brett Stewart has finalised a five-year, $2.5million deal with the Sea Eagles, and says he is strictly a one-club man. But the 23-year-old immediately rejected any suggestions of slipping into a comfort zone, telling The Sunday Telegraph he wants to prove himself as the best fullback in the game during this World Cup year. Stewart was one of the 50 finalists in Cleo magazine's bachelor of the year contest. Extra riches and job security can only enhance his appeal. But Stewart said the deal at Manly would give him the platform to improve his game and work towards being rugby league's premier No1. He rocketed through the representative ranks last year and is the incumbent NSW and Australian fullback. But he acknowledged injuries to Anthony Minichiello and Karmichael Hunt aided his rise. "I probably got (into the Australian team) through injury a little bit more than anything,'' Stewart said. "If every fullback's on board, to make it then, that's what you want to do. It's a clean slate and I think there'll be some good football played.'' Stewart, who has the incredible strike rate of 70 tries in 88 NRL games, will become the face of the Sea Eagles until the end of 2012. And his brother Glenn has re-signed at Manly for three seasons, with coach Des Hasler also set to extend that deal. Both played a part in Stewart's decision, although he also sounded out veteran Steve Menzies for advice. "I'd like to be a one-club player like Beaver (Menzies) and this is just another step towards doing that,'' Stewart said. "I know I'm not going to get complacent just because the club has shown this faith in me. "I now know what I'm doing for the next five years and, if anything, it'll allow me to concentrate even more on my footy. "I suppose there is a bit of responsibility now, but I'm comfortable with that.'' Unable to run for three months because of a knee operation in October, Stewart turned to the video room to improve his support play. But he still hasn't watched footage of the second half from last year's losing grand final, when he was knocked out and helped from the field. Stewart won't play a trial, but insists he will be fit for Manly's season-opener against the Sharks at Brookvale on March 15. "The last five or six weeks I've got back into things and now I'm back to full strength again.'' http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23304052-5006066,00.html |
| Skyhunter |
Great news with the worlds best fullback resigning with the Eagles. And by following Beaver Menzies path and becoming another one club player top stuff. 
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Nathan Merritt re-signs with Souths until 2011
March 06, 2008 12:00am NATHAN Merritt, the NRL's leading tryscorer of 2006, has re-signed with South Sydney until the end of 2011 season. Merritt, 24, made his debut for the Rabbitohs in 2002 before playing with the Sharks in 2004 and 2005 and returning to Redfern in 2006. Merritt's re-signing means he will join fellow Rabbitohs Roy Asotasi, David Faalogo,John Sutton and Craig Wing as players contracted with the club until the end of 2011. "In previous years, South Sydney has struggled to keep its juniors but now we see the likes of Nathan Merritt and John Sutton committing to the club for extended periods of time," Rabbitohs Director of Football Operations Shane Richardson said. "Nathan is the type of player we feel can become a leader at the club. He is a South Sydney junior, he understands what it means to pull on the red and green jersey and the honour that goes with that." Merritt said: "Souths is my junior club and I've always wanted to play in the red and green. "We had a bit of success last year but I think we can achieve more. It all starts next week (in the March 14 season-opener at Sydney's Olympic Stadium) against the Roosters and I'm getting ready to make my return to footy in that game." Merritt missed South Sydney's first finals appearance for 18 years because of a leg injury last season. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23327932-5012663,00.html |
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Gidley re-signs with Knights
March 12, 2008 12:00am NEWCASTLE have re-signed Test star Kurt Gidley to a new three-year deal, keeping him at the club until at least 2012. Gidley had been targeted by several NRL clubs, including South Sydney, but the 25-year-old decided to remain loyal to the Knights after playing his junior football in Newcastle. Gidley made his NRL debut in 2001 but had a breakthrough season in 2007, gaining selection in the NSW and Australian sides. The fullback said he wanted to emulate his older brother Matthew, who played his entire NRL career at the Knights before heading to the UK. Gidley has signed for three years and has an option for a fourth season. "It would always be hard to leave a club like this but I think to be a one-team man is something pretty special,'' Gidley said. "I think Matt being a one-club man was something that also had a big influence on it, I love Newcastle as a town and also the team so I'm very happy with the decision.'' http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23358333-5006066,00.html |
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Souths re-sign Talanoa
All tied up ... Fetuli Talanoa is staying with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. / The Daily Telegraph March 28, 2008 12:00am SOUTH Sydney have re-signed utility back Fetuli Talanoa until the end of the 2010 NRL season. The Souths junior cemented himself a place in the Rabbitohs backline last season where he was used mostly on the wing and at fullback. He will line up in Sunday's match against Penrith in the centres. "Fetuli has shown his continued allegiance to the club by re-signing until the end of 2010, and we want to reward our talented young players with extended contracts,'' Souths' director of football operations Shane Richardson said. "He has proven himself to be a consistent first-grade player over the past two seasons and we believe he can develop his skills even further to higher representative honours. "Fetuli was chased heavily by rival clubs and he has re-signed with us for less money, showing his loyalty to the Rabbitohs and the confidence there is in the club from the playing ranks. "He is a great talent and were very pleased he will be wearing the red and green for at least two more seasons.'' Talanoa joins fellow Souths juniors John Sutton, Nathan Merritt and Craig Wing in recently re-signing with the club. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23445582-5012663,00.html |
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Broncos sign Folau in $1.6M deal
Teen sensation ... Israel Folau has signed to play for the Brisbane Broncos next season. / The Daily Telegraph By Steve Ricketts | March 30, 2008 01:00pm BRISBANE Broncos is set to announce it has signed superstar centre Israel Folau to a $1.6 million four-year deal. The Daily Telegraph has learned Folau informed his teammates after Melbourne Storm's 10-6 loss to the Sydney Roosters on Saturday night he planned to return home to Brisbane next season. Folau, who made his Test debut against New Zealand late last year, has been the subject of a drawn-out tug-of-war between Brisbane and Melbourne who meet in next Friday's grudge match at Olympic Park. The teenager, who is a devout Mormon, has been wrestling between returning to Brisbane to be closer to his family, or remaining in Melbourne with his premiership winning teammates. Folau would be considered Brisbane's highest profile signing since multiple premiership-winner Glenn Lazarus. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23455209-5006066,00.html |
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Tonga joins the Cowboys
Willie Tonga is leaving the Bulldogs to go to the North Queensland Cowboys. / The Daily Telegraph By Steve Mascord | April 01, 2008 12:00am FORMER Australia centre Willie Tonga has confirmed he had signed a four year contract to join North Queensland. On the same day as the Cowboys snared coach Neil Henry, Tonga told the Daily Telegraph he was looking forward to linking up with Matt Bowen and Johnathan Thurston in Townsville. "I'm looking at making an announcement tomorrow," the 24-year-old Bulldogs star said last night. "I went up there a couple of weeks ago and I was very impressed with their setup. I look at Johnathan Thurston and Matt Bowen and I can really see myself in that backline. "It's tough to make this sort of decision but I just wanted to get it out of the way and concentrate on my football." The Dogs' loss came on the same day that new chief executive Todd Greenberg asked errant back-rower Reni Maitua about rumours he wanted to quit at the end for the season. Maitua assured Greenberg he would serve out his contract. He is due to meet Maitua's manager, Gavin Orr, at 10am today. Tonga said he did not join NQ in the understanding Henry would be coach. "I've only just learnt about that - I thought it would be him or (Ian) Millward," said Tonga. "Neil is obviously a very good coach. He's done some great things at Canberra and all the boys have been very impressed with him in the Queensland side." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23465572-5006066,00.html |
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Panthers re-sign Grant
April 09, 2008 12:00am PENRITH have re-signed promising prop Tim Grant until the end of the 2011 NRL season. Grant, a 20-year-old local junior, made 11 appearances for the Panthers in his debut season last year. He is currently battling an ankle injury which is expected to keep him out for at least another month. "Although currently sidelined through injury, the club is confident that Tim will push his way into being a regular first grader,'' Panthers chief executive Michael Leary said. "Tim is a very good local junior and once the injury has healed we look forward to seeing him force his way into the team from round 10.'' Grant represented NSW from under 17s to 19s. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23511877-5012662,00.html |
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Johnson signs for three years
Good news for Storm...Dallas Johnson has signed a new three-year deal with the club. / The Daily Telegraph MELBOURNE lock Dallas Johnson has signed a new three-year contract with the Storm that will see him remain with the reigning NRL premiers until the end of the 2011 season. The Queensland and Australian capped forward said loyalty played a big part in his decision to remain with the Storm. "I'd like to think of myself as a loyal type of bloke, the club has been really good to me and I've thoroughly enjoyed my time here," said the 25-year-old. "I see no reason to be looking to play my football anywhere else." Johnson made his NRL debut with the Storm in 2003 and has played a key part in the club's recent success, helping them to the 2006 minor premiership and grand final, and then the NRL title last year. He has played in all six State of Origin games since making his Queensland debut in 2006, and last year made his Kangaroos debut against New Zealand last October. He was later named at lock for the World XIII team for 2007 and currently sits in second place on the NRL tackle count for the 2008 season behind teammate Cam Smith. Melbourne coach Craig Bellamy said Johnson was an integral part of the club. "You know every time Dallas puts on the Storm jersey he will give everything he's got to win," said Bellamy. "He is very well respected by the players, coaches and staff. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23542800-5012649,00.html |
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Goodwin a Raider until 2011
April 17, 2008 12:00am CANBERRA have put their faith in Bronx Goodwin to become the club's long-term solution in the No.1 jumper, re-signing the talented youngster until the end of the 2011 NRL season. With William Zillman set to move to the Gold Coast next year, the Raiders moved quickly to lock up the son of former St George great Ted Goodwin. "It's good for me and the club has been kind in giving me three years so I'm happy," Goodwin said. "I've got the fullback position now, and I've got to keep working on my own game and hopefully keep the spot for a long time to come." Raiders chief executive Don Furner said Goodwin's re-signing was a must for the club. "Bronx has always had the talent ... there's a good group of guys here and they're close mates and that's been prevalent in the other guys we've been speaking to as well," Furner said. "I think we have a really good bunch of blokes here with no big egos and they all get on really well." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23554802-5012664,00.html |
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Lawrence signs until 2011
April 17, 2008 12:00am BOOM West Tigers centre Chris Lawrence will remain at the NRL club until the end of the 2011 season after agreeing to a two-year contract extension today. Lawrence, 19, was signed until the end of 2009, but the Tigers moved to lock-up the promising youngster following interest from rival NRL clubs. Lawrence has played 23 games for the Tigers after making his first-grade debut while still at school against Brisbane in 2006. In that time he has scored 20 tries and is considered a contender for a City-Origin spot in the opening representative game next month. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23554099-5012658,00.html |
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$1.5m makes Tupou a Shark
Big money deal...Cronulla have won the race for Test forward Anthony Tupou's signature. / The Daily Telegraph Exclusive by Phil Rothfield | April 22, 2008 12:00am IT'S not often the big-spending Roosters are beaten for a player they are desperate to keep, but the Cronulla Sharks have swooped to sign Test forward Anthony Tupou on a four-year deal. Sources last night indicated it was the opportunity to play under Kangaroo coach Ricky Stuart that swayed the dynamic Tupou the Sharks' way. "Tupou started his first-grade career under Ricky at the Roosters and that was one of the big factors in his decision," a source told The Daily Telegraph. Tupou has agreed to terms on a contract worth around $1.5 million after a fortnight of top-secret negotiations with Stuart and Sharks CEO Tony Zappia. The Sharks had to beat off a massive offer from Manly and a desperate attempt by Roosters boss Nick Politis to keep the strapping forward at Bondi Junction. "It's a great coup for the club to sign a player of Anthony Tupou's status in the game," Zapia said last night. "We believe he has been the form second-rower in the competition this year and he'll be a huge boost to us. "He is certainly a ready-made replacement for Lance Thompson." It's understood the club is also very close to signing a second big-name player within a fortnight. Tupou, 25, is one of the most explosive forwards in the NRL and is the Sharks' biggest signing since Brett Kimmorley was lured from the now-defunct Northern Eagles. His arrival at Cronulla will give the Sharks arguably the best back-row in the premiership with Tupo playing alongside Test forwards Greg Bird and Paul Gallen. The Roosters are bitterly disappointed to be losing the player they signed from Newcastle in 2003. Tupou and his manager, Darryl Mather, only told the Roosters and Manly of his decision to leave Bondi late last night. There had been suggestions Roosters officials were so determined to keep him they planned to release several players from their contracts early to free up enough cash under the salary cap to retain him. Cronulla had the funds to compete against the biggest spending clubs following the retirement of veteran forward Lance Thompson last week who was understood to be on $280,000 a season. Sharks players were last night pleased with the news. "He is a very good player and will be a welcome addition to our pack," one player said. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23578177-5012659,00.html |
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Raiders sign Flanagan from Wests Tigers
Posted: Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:49:25 Canberra have signed promising Wests Tigers hooker Stuart Flanagan to a three-year deal from next NRL season. The Raiders announced the 21-year-old would join them next year after three seasons with the Tigers. Flanagan has made three appearances for the Tigers this season in place of injured hooker Robbie Farah. "It's exciting to be going down to Canberra next year, they have a lot of good young players and I think there's a bright future there," Flanagan said. "Having said that, I'm still committed to the Tigers this year and I'm looking forward to playing some good footy for them." Raiders chief executive Don Furner said Flanagan's signing was a great coup for the club. "Stuart is a local product who is returning home after establishing himself as a star of the future," Furner said. "We look forward to having him here from the start of next season and wish him the best of luck for the remainder of 2008." Tigers coach Tim Sheens also wished Flanagan all the best. "He has done his apprenticeship at Wests Tigers and he is obviously looking to establish his own first grade career," Sheens said. "It was always going to be difficult behind Robbie Farah." Flanagan made his first-grade debut in 2006 and has played 14 games for the Tigers. http://www.nrl.com.au/News/Latest/tabid/10244/default.aspx?id=50692 |
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Nathan Friend re-signs with Titans
Posted: Wed, 23 Apr 2008 06:45:30 Gold Coast hooker Nathan Friend's early season good form has been rewarded, with the NRL club extending his contract for a year. The Titans have taken up an option in Friend's contract that ensures he'll remain on the glitter strip until the end of next season. Titans managing director Michael Searle said the club was negotiating with Friend's management to extend Friend's contract beyond 2009. "We're really pleased to be able to extend Nathan's contract for next year and the fact we are negotiating beyond that highlights how much we think of him and his importance to the club," said Searle. "He is a key member of the playing staff and a real natural leader." After playing second fiddle to Test hooker Cameron Smith at Melbourne, Friend has become a mainstay of the Gold Coast forwards, playing 29 of the club's 30 NRL games so far. The 27-year-old has been a key figure in helping the Titans shoot to the top of the NRL ladder with five wins from six matches. "I can see something building at the club and I'd love to be around for longer if we could come to an agreement," said Friend. "It's nice to know where I stand for next year. If I can lock something in further, that would great." Meanwhile, five-eighth Ashley Harrison (elbow) should be fit to play against the New Zealand Warriors at Skilled Park on Sunday while prop Brad Meyers is still awaiting the result of scans on his injured wrist. http://www.nrl.com.au/News/Latest/tabid/10244/default.aspx?id=50699 |
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Raiders re-sign worker Thurling
Hard work pays off ... Trevor Thurling / The Daily Telegraph April 23, 2008 12:00am CANBERRA have re-signed forward Trevor Thurling until the end of the 2010 NRL season. Thurling has made 23 appearances for the Raiders since joining the club from the Bulldogs in 2006, including four this season. He is currently serving a two-match suspension for his lifting tackle on Wests Tigers hooker Stuart Flanagan a fortnight ago. "It's good to get the contract talks over nice and early in the year," Thurling, 23, said today. "To get on the field and show some form and get a contract is great. "Hopefully now I can get back into the side in two weeks time and finish off a successful year with the Raiders." Thurling made his first-grade debut for the Bulldogs in 2004 before returning to the ACT, where he played his junior football. Raiders chief executive Don Furner said Thurling's re-singing showed the club rewarded players who worked hard on improving their game. "Trevor's a local product and we lost him to the Bulldogs a couple of years ago, but we kept our eye on him, got him back," Furner said. "He's only young and he'll get better." Thurling has made 23 appearances for the Raiders since joining the club from the Bulldogs in 2006, including four this season. He is currently serving a two-match suspension for his lifting tackle on Wests Tigers hooker Stuart Flanagan a fortnight ago. "It's good to get the contract talks over nice and early in the year," Thurling, 23, said today. "To get on the field and show some form and get a contract is great. "Hopefully now I can get back into the side in two weeks time and finish off a successful year with the Raiders." Thurling made his first-grade debut for the Bulldogs in 2004 before returning to the ACT, where he played his junior football. Raiders chief executive Don Furner said Thurling's re-singing showed the club rewarded players who worked hard on improving their game. "Trevor's a local product and we lost him to the Bulldogs a couple of years ago, but we kept our eye on him, got him back," Furner said. "He's only young and he'll get better." http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23586015-5012664,00.html |
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Knights sign hooker De Gois
EXCLUSIVE by Josh Massoud | April 23, 2008 12:00am NEWCASTLE has moved to fill Danny Buderus' sizeable boots by signing Sharks hooker Isaac De Gois for three seasons. The Knights have been searching for a replacement rake from 2009 onwards since Buderus announced he would finish his career at Leeds last month. Talks with De Gois have been ongoing for some time, and it is understood an agreement was reached earlier this week. Newcastle officials are hopeful of formally announcing their newest signing this afternoon. De Gois’ signature comes a day after the Sharks snared sacked Knights hooker Terence Seu Seu for the remainder of this season. Some Newcastle board members were keen to lure Seu Seu back from 2009, but that now appears unlikely given De Gois will be at the club until the end of 2011. The 23-year-old has played strongly in all six of the Sharks’ NRL games this season. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23585664-5012665,00.html |
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Dogs sign Josh Morris
Josh Morris ... moving from the Dragons to the Bulldogs. / The Daily Telegraph By Dean Ritchie | April 24, 2008 12:00am THE Bulldogs have today announced the signing of Dragons star Josh Morris. Morris' decision to change clubs ends his chances of being coached at St George Illawarra next year by Wayne Bennett. The Bulldogs made an official announcement on Morris - the son of former Australian halfback Steve - this afternoon. Meanwhile St George Illawarra have received mix news on the eve of their Anzac Day clash with Sydney Roosters with skipper Mark Gasnier to make a shock comeback from a calf injury but Matt Cooper ruled out with a back complaint. Gasnier missed last week's loss to the Bulldogs with a torn calf and had initially been ruled out for four weeks, ruining his chances of playing for Australia in the Centenary Test on May 9. But the star centre's quick recovery means he is almost certain to be named in the Test team when it is announced on Sunday. Dragons coach Nathan Brown said Gasnier's return would boost the side. "It's definitely a bonus to have Gaz (Mark Gasnier) back in, he is the club captain,'' said Brown. "He has tried hard in the games he has played and gives that added spark to the team.'' Winger Josh Morris will replace Michael Lett on the wing in the other team change. http://www.news.com.au/dailyteleg.../0,26799,23591596-5006066,00.html |