London Broncos tie down World 9s star and player Rohan Smith worked with

It’s been a big few days for London Broncos.

After a difficult start to 2022 which saw them appearing like relegation fodder, the Broncos turned things around when Mike Eccles took over as Interim Coach. He guided London to safety in the end with relative ease with some terrific form.

This big week for the Broncos started with the news that he was taking on a new role as Director of Rugby and Performance having previously been Head of Performance before proving himself as a coach. This new role will still see him lead the club in 2022.

Then London confirmed that former Leeds Rhinos man Wellington Albert would be staying at the club next prior and this morning confirmed that proven try-scorer Paul Ulberg has committed his future to London Broncos by becoming the club’s second off-season signing ahead of next season’s Betfred Championship campaign.

The New Zealand born Cook Islands international enjoyed a positive first year in the UK by scoring 14 tries in his 24 appearances for the Broncos.

His proudest moment occurred in August when scoring a hat-trick against Newcastle Thunder in the Broncos’ outstanding 0-44 win away from home.

Ulberg joined London last year moving from the North Devils where he played under current Leeds boss Rogan Smith.

Given Smith’s quick fire development of so many Leeds players since arriving at Headingley, it’s unsurprising Ulberg is a quality talent proven by his success in the 2019 World 9s being selected in the Team of the Tournament.

The 26-year-old winger will link up with all-action prop Wellington Albert at the Cherry Red Records Stadium, who on Wednesday was confirmed as the club’s first off-season signing.

“London feels like home to me now,” said Ulberg. “It’s always going to take some adjusting living the other side of the world, but I feel comfortable and have been warmly welcomed into the Broncos family.

“It’s a different climate and style of Rugby League over here, but I quickly settled into the Championship and was keen to remain with the club and see how we can develop as a group next season.

“I’ll enjoy the autumn break but by winter we’ll all be raring to go and I’m excited by the plans Mike (Eccles, Director of Rugby and Performance) has for the club. He wants to create a great team culture on and off the pitch which is something all players want to hear.

“Returning to London for another season is really pleasing personally and I look forward to the challenges ahead.”

Director of Rugby and Performance Mike Eccles said Ulberg’s professional approach to his responsibilities on and off the pitch made him a player he was keen to retain.

Eccles added: “Paul had an unbelievable season and just like Wellington (Albert) he became a favourite amongst our supporters. Everything about his game made me want to retain him in the squad.

“In possession, he has carried the ball as far as anyone at this level. Paul has a fantastic try-scoring ability too, and off the field he conducts himself professionally which is very important to me.

“We’re aspiring to develop a culture where players will contribute positively on and off the field and both Paul and Wellington tick those boxes.”