York Knights head coach Mark Applegarth can’t wait to see new signing Xavier Va’a in Super League action.
The 22-year-old arrived at York earlier this month after agreeing his release from NRL outfit Sydney Roosters. He made his NRL debut for the Roosters last year, marking his bow with a try against Cronulla Sharks, and he makes the move to Super League with extensive experience of the New South Wales Cup under his belt.
He’s one of 15 new signings made by the Knights following their promotion to Super League, though, with the likes of Ryan Jackson, John Sagaga and Jordan Lipp joining him in making the move over from down under. And, the sheer amount of turnover in personnel makes York something of an unknown quantity heading into the start of the Super League season.
When it comes to Va’a, though, Applegarth is confident that he can impress, especially as he continues to work alongside the experienced heads in the group.
Check out the latest episode of The Serious About Rugby League Show on our YouTube channel here.
“He’s a player that we’ve been monitoring for a year or two,” Applegarth told Serious About Rugby League. “When we knew that he had come available, we had a spot in the front row that we needed.
“He’s an absolute champion young man, really good leadership abilities on him and he has a burning desire to be the best and improve.
“Having a player like Paul Vaughan, I think he’s a great guy for Xavier to be working with and understand the standard on that and again, I’m looking forward to seeing him in action in Super League.”
York Knights boss on Va’a concussion situation
Va’a was heavily linked with a move to Wakefield Trinity prior to York, but the West Yorkshire outfit opted against pursuing a deal for the prop due to his current concussion status, with his next head knock set to lead to a substantial lay off.
“I don’t think it’s a risk,” Applegarth added on Va’a’s situation. “We play a pretty tough sport and players are going to get a few bumps here and there.
“After speaking with the Sydney medical staff and Xavier, all that’s happened is that he’s followed protocol. I wouldn’t say there’s any more risk to Xavier than any other players in a similar boat. I wouldn’t see it as a risk.”
