Fien granted request for release
Nathan Fien has requested and been granted a release from his NRL contract by the Vodafone Warriors.
Fien (29) approached the club through his manager Jim Banaghan late today, seeking a release from the last four months of his current contract.
Vodafone Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said Fien’s request had been looked upon favourably, allowing him to leave immediately to take up a contract with St George Illawarra.
“We were committed to Nathan staying at the club for the rest of the season,” said Scurrah.
“But given that he asked for a release and that he hasn’t been playing for the Vodafone Warriors in recent weeks, it was only reasonable to allow him to take up this offer.
“Nathan has served us well since arriving for the 2005 season.
“He has gone on to play 100 NRL games for the Vodafone Warriors, he was part of the Kiwis’ World Cup victory last year and he has also contributed well to our community programmes.
“We thank him for his efforts and we wish him and his family all the best for the future.”
Fien said he was looking forward to the next phase of his career after almost five years in Auckland.
“I was committed to seeing out my contract,” he said.
“But with the offer coming from St George Illawarra, I had to make a decision by the deadline (June 30) about my plans.
“While I’m excited about the challenge ahead, it’s sad to leave this club. I’ve had a great time with the Vodafone Warriors, playing with the boys here. I want to thank everyone for the way they’ve supported me and my family.”
Fien finishes his Vodafone Warriors career with 105 matches and 17 tries from 2005-2009. He arrived at the club after making 91 appearances for North Queensland.
