Vodafone Warriors Announce the Signing of Nine Players

The Vodafone Warriors have announced that they have re-signed 9 players from their 2011 squad.

Jacob Lillyman, who this week marked his return to the State of Origin arena, has re-signed with the Vodafone Warriors on a two-year contract, meaning that the front-rower will be committed to the club until the end of 2013.

"It’s been a huge week personally with the thrill of playing Origin football again and now having my future with the Vodafone Warriors sorted out,” he said.

“It was a massive honour to play for Queensland again after being out of Origin for a while and it was also fantastic to make the Maroons while playing for the Vodafone Warriors.

“While I had a tough year in 2010 it has been a great move coming to Auckland. I’ve really enjoyed living here and this club is brilliant to be part of.”

Vodafone Warriors recruitment manager Dean Bell also announced the re-signing of seven more NRL squad members, plus the re-signing of the Junior Warriors' star centre Konrad Hurrell.

Tongan international, Ukuma Ta'ai, has been signed until the end of 2012, whilst utility half Isaac John has also signed a  one-year contract with the club.

Livewire hooker Alehana Mara and utility Pita Godinet have both signed two-year contracts with the club, securing their future with the Vodafone Warriors until the end of 2013.

While Mara has shown what he is capable of in first grade, with his performance against the Newcastle Knights earning him a spot in Rugby League Week's "Team of the Week", Godinet is yet to make his NRL debut.

This marks the second contract upgrade in a matter of months for the Christchurch born Godinet (23), who at the beginning of the year was on a trial contract. However, impressive form in the pre-season saw Pita earn a one-year contract with the Vodafone Warriors.

“We’ve been thrilled with Pita’s efforts ever since he came into the NRL squad,” said Bell.

“He has again been one of the Vulcans’ best players this season and he’s doing all the coaching staff expect of him. Pita’s success is another great example for local players who can see there is a pathway for them here with the Vodafone Warriors.”

Godinet caught the attention of the Vodafone Warriors in 2010 when he was a stand-out performer for the Auckland Vulcans, making the NSW Cup’s team of the year as well as being named the Vulcans’ player of the year.

Pita also went on to represent Samoa in the end of year match against the Kiwis, where he scored Samoa's only try of the match.

Having been offered a second contract upgrade, Godinet couldn't be more thrilled to secure his future with the club.

“I’m stoked knowing I’ve got a future with the Vodafone Warriors,” he said.

“I’ve loved every minute of being part of the NRL squad so far and it’s great for my partner and for me knowing what’s ahead of us.”

Apart from Lillyman, Ta’ai, John, Mara and Godinet, the Vodafone Warriors have also signed props James Gavet (21) and Saulala Houma (20), plus young centres Ivan Penehe (21) and Konrad Hurrell (19) until the end of 2012.

The confirmation of these nine signings follow recent contract announcements about fullback Glen Fisiiahi, Sione and Samiuela Lousi, plus Gold Coast hooker Nathan Friend, while the club has also confirmed it has taken up options on prop Sam Rapira, standoff James Maloney and fullback-winger Kevin Locke.

More contract announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

Mon, May 30th 2011