York Knights have signed a goal-kicking back from Queensland Cup champions Norths Devils, who are coached by ex-Leeds Rhinos boss Rohan Smith.
Jordan Lipp, 24, will join Knights next season, when they hope to be playing in Super League.
A full-back, who can also operate in the halves or at centre, Lipp has scored four tries and 59 goals in 19 games for the Devils this year, with a success rate from the boot of 72.8 per cent.
Having previously played with Townsville Blackhawks and Western Clydesdales, he scored a try and five goals for six attempts when Devils beat Redcliffe Dolphins 34-20 in last year’s Hostplus Cup Grand Final.
His teammates that day included current Super League players Tesi Niu (Leigh Leopards), Jeremiah Simbiken (Castleford Tigers) and Cooper Jenkins (Leeds Rhinos).
He also started at full-back in Devils’ 2024 NRL State Championship win against Newtown Jets, scoring a try and booting two goals.
Jordan Lipp on joining York Knights
Lipp said: “From the minute Clint [Goodchild, Knights’ chairman] reached out to me about the possibility of joining York, I was excited straight away.
“The vision he has for the club and where we are heading, I knew straight away I wanted to be a part of it.
“I’ve watched all of the games since signing and you can see why the Knights are having so much success by looking at the fans they get at home and away games.
“I can’t wait to experience what the city has to offer and enjoy the loyal supporters the Knights have behind them.”
Knights coach, Mark Applegarth said: “I’m really delighted we’ve got Jordan over the line.
“I think he’s going to be a player that takes the league by storm and adds more depth to that full-back position.
“I think he’ll up the standard yet again and provide even more competition and I just can’t wait to get him started.
“He comes with big raps from everyone in Australia and I’m sure he’ll fit in great with the Knights.”
