This feature requires the Standard edition. You are running the Trial edition
or your site domain is not associated with your license key.
Please visit www.packflash.com to purchase an upgrade or add your domain.
Southern Districts rising star Ben Volavola has today signed with the HSBC Waratahs.
One of four up and coming Shute Shield youngsters invited to join the squad for the first two weeks of pre-season training, the 21-year-old fly half impressed new head coach Michael Cheika and will now take the final place in the HSBC Waratahs Extended Playing Squad for next season.
“All four players did exceptionally well to come in and perform as they did,” said Cheika of invited club talents Hamish Angus (Warringah, 22), Toby Browne (Randwick, 23), Ben Volavola (Southern Districts, 21) and Peter Samu (Randwick, 20).
Ben Volavola feature courtesy of Fox Sports News.
“They worked exceptionally hard and gave everything in the small window of time they had with us.
“It’s hard to make a decision on such a short timeframe but Ben stood out as the type of player that we want to bring on. He grew as the two weeks progressed and from what we’ve seen of him, which was mostly in attack, he looks to be a dangerous player capable of taking it up levels.”
Hearing the news from Cheika on Friday, Ben said he couldn’t quite believe it. “I was so excited but I couldn’t quite believe it – I was up against three other real quality players.
“When I told my mum she screamed on the train, she was really happy. My girlfriend started crying! I just couldn’t wait to get back here. Everyone has been so welcoming and made us all feel comfortable.
“My aims at the moment are just to have a big pre-season, learn from the experienced guys like Berrick Barnes around me to become a better rugby player and hopefully get the chance to play Super Rugby in 2013.”
Included in the squad predominantly as a flyhalf, it was Volavola’s performances in the Southern Districts’ 15 jersey that earned him this chance.
“He shone enough at club level last season – out of position,” said Cheika. “We’ll look at him in both positions while he’s here.”
Despite having only one contract up for grabs on this occasion, Cheika also confirmed that he would pursue further opportunities for club players to be a part of the NSW squad, working with a recruitment network from within the NSW rugby community to establish a pathway to the NSW side from the Sydney Premiership and NSW country ranks.
“We represent the state as a whole. These boys all really deserved this opportunity and we’re definitely looking to keep the club scene attached as much as possible. Growing our talent the best we can from within and giving deserving up and coming youngsters from this state a chance at professional rugby is an important part of what we’re about,” said Cheika.
For full profiles on all the 2013 HSBC Waratahs squad, visit the Super Rugby
squad page.
Show your support! Get behind Ben and the rest of the HSBC Waratahs squad today. Get your NEW 6 Game Allianz Stadium Membership package today. As well as FREE entry to the ripper pre-season trial match against the Crusaders in Sydney (February 14, 2013), HSBC Waratahs members get advance access to tickets for next year's British & Irish Lions Tour matches. Packages start from just $38 for adults and are available now from www.waratahs.com.au/membership or by by contacting the membership team on 1300 733 899 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm) or waratahs@rugby.com.au.