Leeds sign Biarritz flyer
May 29 2009
Leeds Carnegie have strengthened their back-line with the signing of Samoan winger Henry Fa'afili from French club Biarritz.
The former rugby league man, who actually played against the city's Leeds Rhinos outfit for Warrington Wolves, joins Headingley on a two-year union contract.
The 28-year-old has spent two seasons in France since switching codes and is a proven finisher having appeared for Samoa in both union and league.
"I am really excited about coming to Leeds Carnegie. I came over a couple of weeks ago and met some of the guys and I am just looking forward to getting back and starting pre-season with the team," Fa'afili said, speaking to the club's official website.
"I know Fosi Pala'amo from the Samoa squad and obviously Henry Paul from my league days. I am looking forward to playing alongside these guys at Headingley Carnegie. It is an awesome ground with a special atmosphere and I am looking forward to calling it home having played their as a visitor in the past."
Before joining the Guinness Premiership outfit, Fa'afili will link up with new team-mate Fosi Pala'amo in the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup. However, he revealed that it was a visit to the club earlier this month that made his mind up especially after meeting the coaching duo of Andy Key and Neil Back.
"Leeds is a very impressive club both on and off the field and they have got some good personnel in the squad," he said.
"I sat down and spoke to Andy and Neil and their vision for the team persuaded me to sign for Leeds Carnegie. It is the chance to have a fresh start for me and that is very exciting for me and my partner when we move to Leeds.
"It was tough for me when I first switched codes in France with the language barrier and I know I have a lot to still learn. But it will be great to be working with Andy and Neil and they can teach me so much and I am willing to learn. I can't wait.
Commenting on the signing Director of Rugby Andy Key admitted he was delighted to have secured the winger, who Leeds surely hope will fill the void left by Newcastle-bound Tom Biggs.
"We are delighted to have finally agreed the deal to bring Henry to the club. He is going to be a great addition to our back line and is a proven try scorer in both codes," said Key.
"He is a powerful runner and I am sure he is a player that the Leeds Carnegie fans will instantly take to and enjoy watching him play."