Wakefield signs experienced Australian second row forward Steve Southern to three-year contract
Wakefield based English Rugby League Football Club, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, has acquired the services of the Australian back row forward, Steve Southern. Officials at the club have confirmed the signing of the Southern Hemisphere player on a long-term deal, in a statement released on their website on Tuesday, August 9.
Wakefield has handed over a three-year contract to the National Rugby League (NRL) player to strengthen their squad for next seasons.
Wildcats Trinity Chief Executive, James Elston, has expressed his excitement on securing the services of the veteran player. He termed his inclusion in the side as a good addition and expressed his confidence that their second row will be at par with the best teams in the Super League.
Elston further added, “Steve is a great addition to our squad for the next three years, his NRL experience will provide a great boost to many of our younger players and his ruthless playing style will be great for our supporters to see.”
Elston has further praised the personality attributes and work ethic of Southern. He further added, “I’m sure he (Southern) will be a perfect fit at The Wildcats. I look forward to his arrival and seeing him in action for Wakefield.”
The New South Wales born Southern has expressed his delight at signing the long-term contract with the club. He added, “I’m really happy that I’m finally doing that for Wakefield and I can’t wait to get out on the field and put in my all as a Wildcat.”
Commenting on his decision to move to the England from NRL, Steve confirmed that main motive behind his decision was the fact that most of his family lives in England. He further added that the recent big development for the Wildcats, which includes their new three year Super League License and the arrival of new head coach at the club, also influenced his decision to sign with the club.
The 29-year-old Southern started his professional Rugby League career with North Queensland against the New Castle Knights, in 2004. He remained there until the end of the 2010 season and has played 123 games for Queensland and scored 48 points.
At the start of the 2011 NRL season, Steve joined the Newcastle Knights, where he has made six appearances for Knights in the season.
The only last hurdle Steve faces before he join his new squad, is the approval of the three year contract by the United Kingdom Border Agency department. Steve will join the utility back Vince Mellars in the forwards pack. Mellars also has signed a three-year deal with the Wildcats.
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