http://leagueunlimited.com/article.php?newsid=19462
The Coal & Allied
Newcastle Knights have today secured former Australian International
Antonio Kaufusi for the remainder of 2010, until the end of the 2012 season.
Kaufusi, 25, will join the Knights next week despite still having a contract which extended until the end of 2011 with the North Queensland Cowboys.
Kaufusi debuted for the Melbourne Storm against the Bulldogs in round 22, 2003, going on to represent Australia in 2006, Queensland in 2007 and Tonga in the World Cup of 2008.
He also enjoyed considerable success with the Melbourne Storm between 2003 and 2008, including two grand final appearances.
“With the way our current playing roster sits, the addition of a player of Antonio's experience and ability is a massive boost to us here at the Knights,” Head Coach Rick Stone said.
“I've kept a close eye on him since he began playing in the Queensland Cup in the early 2000s, then through some very successful years at the Storm, and more recently with the Cowboys.
“Antonio fits the exact requirements of what we need at this point in time and we are excited about him joining us next week.”
The former Bundaberg junior will commence training next week and will be available for selection when the Newcastle Knights play the Cronulla Sharks at EnergyAustralia Stadium on Sunday 11 July.
“I have enjoyed my time in North Queensland with the Cowboys and appreciate what they have done for me,” Kaufusi said.
“The opportunity the Knights have offered me was too good to knock back and I feel this is the best thing for myself and my family for the future.”
The Knights have also signed exciting Toyota Cup players Beau Henry and Siuatonga Likiliki.
Henry and Likiliki, both 20, were named in the 2009 Toyota Cup team of the year, with Henry as Player of the Year.
Henry was widely considered to be the most exciting prospect on the market and Likiliki has already indicated his potential talent by making his first grade debut for the Warriors last year against the Parramatta Eels.
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