Crusaders (UK) News
- Thread starter Nash the Shark
- Start date
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
Bloody hope so mate ...keep me informed of any rumours about players linked with us in coming months will u lads n lassies
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
We have filled the roles with some of our reserve grade Welsh youngsters...and yes ok they have been a touch out of their depth being thrown in like this theres enough signs to say these lads will be first grade players before very long
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
Well last game at Brewery Field as next season we start a two year tennancy at Rodney parade home of Newport Dragons Rugby yawnion Club while our new stadium is being built (believe that when i see it lol )
KO: 1800, Venue: Brewery Field, Att: 1,988
Celtic Crusaders (0) 16
T: A Blackwood 1, S Tyrer 1, M Lennon 1,
G: S Tyrer 2,
DG:
Huddersfield (18) 42
T: P Whaturia 1, D Hodgson 1, L Fulton 2, S Lunt 2, P Larne 1,
G: L Cudjoe 7,
DG:
Pretty tosh game from our point of view ...now the Six have flown back home (well 4 back to Aus and 2 to France ) this was always gunna be a end of season sort of game ....Hudds raced to a 36 - 0 lead before Crusaders woke up a bit but by then it was all done and dusted so one more game left on our first season in SL (pretty crap one at that )
KO: 1800, Venue: Brewery Field, Att: 1,988
Celtic Crusaders (0) 16
T: A Blackwood 1, S Tyrer 1, M Lennon 1,
G: S Tyrer 2,
DG:
Huddersfield (18) 42
T: P Whaturia 1, D Hodgson 1, L Fulton 2, S Lunt 2, P Larne 1,
G: L Cudjoe 7,
DG:
Pretty tosh game from our point of view ...now the Six have flown back home (well 4 back to Aus and 2 to France ) this was always gunna be a end of season sort of game ....Hudds raced to a 36 - 0 lead before Crusaders woke up a bit but by then it was all done and dusted so one more game left on our first season in SL (pretty crap one at that )
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SkySportsPeek sticks with CrusadersSkySportsPeek, who played in the NRL for the Cronulla Sharks, is expected to be joined by Jason Chan and Luke Dyer in signing new contracts. ...
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12196_5544679,00.html&usg=AFQjCNEl2v8WJjzPsigQQIZ7ML1yaGAkmQ
Peek sticks with Crusaders
Welsh club expected to make further player announcements soon
Last updated: 8th September 2009
Australian forward Adam Peek has agreed a new two-year deal with the Celtic Crusaders.
The 32-year-old made 17 appearances for the Super League newcomers in 20009 before his season was abruptly ended by a knee injury.
Peek, who played in the NRL for the Cronulla Sharks, is expected to be joined by Jason Chan and Luke Dyer in signing new contracts.
"I'm really happy to have it all sorted out as I've enjoyed this year," he said. "I'm looking forward to getting back into training again and to help the Crusaders greatly improve in 2010."
The Welsh club are expected to make further announcements concerning their playing staff in the near future.
Forward Chan and winger Dyer are set to stay but there could be wholesale changes after six regulars were deported for visa irregularities.
The Crusaders, who are moving from their Brewery Field home in Bridgend to Newport's Rodney Parade venue next season, are already certain to finish their debut campaign in the top flight with the wooden spoon.
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,12196_5544679,00.html&usg=AFQjCNEl2v8WJjzPsigQQIZ7ML1yaGAkmQ
Peek sticks with Crusaders
Welsh club expected to make further player announcements soon
Last updated: 8th September 2009
Australian forward Adam Peek has agreed a new two-year deal with the Celtic Crusaders.
The 32-year-old made 17 appearances for the Super League newcomers in 20009 before his season was abruptly ended by a knee injury.
Peek, who played in the NRL for the Cronulla Sharks, is expected to be joined by Jason Chan and Luke Dyer in signing new contracts.
"I'm really happy to have it all sorted out as I've enjoyed this year," he said. "I'm looking forward to getting back into training again and to help the Crusaders greatly improve in 2010."
The Welsh club are expected to make further announcements concerning their playing staff in the near future.
Forward Chan and winger Dyer are set to stay but there could be wholesale changes after six regulars were deported for visa irregularities.
The Crusaders, who are moving from their Brewery Field home in Bridgend to Newport's Rodney Parade venue next season, are already certain to finish their debut campaign in the top flight with the wooden spoon.
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
Well folks last game of a shall we say turbulent season and even tho it was a sterling effort and a very depleted and young team we put out this was the outcome
KO: 1530, Venue: The Jungle, Att: 6,547
Castleford (14) 35
T: K Dixon 1, M Shenton 2, M Wainwright 1, M Sargent 1, R Owen 1, C Huby 1,
G: K Dixon 2, J Westerman 1,
DG: B Sherwin 1,
Celtic Crusaders (16) 22
T: L Withers 2, R OHara 1, L White 1,
G: S Tyrer 3,
DG:
Also it has been released that after guiding us to Super league from the outset in NL2 John Dixon is leaving the club as of this weekend and returning to Australia . I believe he has had a job offer from Redcliffe Dolphins ??? if anyone can give me a bit of info on them i would be grateful . Anyway hes off and if the rumors are true BRIAN NOBLE current Wigan coach will be our next coach after Wigan are knocked out of play offs(unless they go to grand final )...so watch this space ans i will keeep you informed
KO: 1530, Venue: The Jungle, Att: 6,547
Castleford (14) 35
T: K Dixon 1, M Shenton 2, M Wainwright 1, M Sargent 1, R Owen 1, C Huby 1,
G: K Dixon 2, J Westerman 1,
DG: B Sherwin 1,
Celtic Crusaders (16) 22
T: L Withers 2, R OHara 1, L White 1,
G: S Tyrer 3,
DG:
Also it has been released that after guiding us to Super league from the outset in NL2 John Dixon is leaving the club as of this weekend and returning to Australia . I believe he has had a job offer from Redcliffe Dolphins ??? if anyone can give me a bit of info on them i would be grateful . Anyway hes off and if the rumors are true BRIAN NOBLE current Wigan coach will be our next coach after Wigan are knocked out of play offs(unless they go to grand final )...so watch this space ans i will keeep you informed
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
CRUSADERS PRESS CONF ON WEDNESDAY
We are holding a press conf on Wednesday to unveil the new coaching team for the 2010 season at bloody long last
Its widley expected to be Brian Noble with jon Sharpe (ex huddersfield and GB ) as his asst with Iyestyn Harris also havin a role in the new set up
But sayin that it could all be nonsence and who knows who we will get
We are holding a press conf on Wednesday to unveil the new coaching team for the 2010 season at bloody long last
Its widley expected to be Brian Noble with jon Sharpe (ex huddersfield and GB ) as his asst with Iyestyn Harris also havin a role in the new set up
But sayin that it could all be nonsence and who knows who we will get
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
All of the above confirmed on wednesday ...Roll on some new signings now
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
NOT LOOKIN AT ALL GOOD FOR ME....................Strong Rumour has it that Crusaders owner leighton Samuels has done a runner from club leavin us with debts and only way Crusaders will be on the field for next season is with a move to North wales.....as i say only strong rumours at the mo but we havent heard anythin official from Club for months and have had no singnings confirmed so looks like I will be a fan with no team as im not travellin the 4 hrs from my hous for a bloody home game ...plus the fact they have treated us fans like S**t over the whole sorry mess .....stay tuned for more info
BUZ
Paragon
I heard Zaps is looking for a job. Do you reckon he could sort the mess out, Nash?
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Rugby League - Welsh seal move northHalifax Evening CourierThe 25-year-old former Cronulla player rejected the offer of a new two-year contract with the Catalans in order to resume his Australian NRL career on a ...
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/local/Rugby-League--Welsh-seal.5891790.jp&usg=AFQjCNHiSNt1i-pue5Hrpy6Ftu_-mEPE7g
Super League: Crusaders seal move north
Published Date: 08 December 2009
Super League's fledging club, Crusaders, are putting the finishing touches to a controversial deal that will see them move lock, stock and barrel from south Wales to Wrexham.
The former Bridgend club will be based at the Racecourse Ground from 2010, sharing a home with the Blue Square Pemier football team, although they will not sever all ties with the south.
The move will leave the Crusaders just 32 miles from Widnes, one of the club's they beat - largely on geographical grounds - to a top flight franchise 18 months ago.
The club intend to stage several matches "on the road", probably in Neath, which is the intended home for a new Championship One club.
It is a reversal of the original plans of the club, who in August announced a move from Bridgend to Newport's Rodney Parade in a bid to attract more investment but with the intention of some playing matches in Wrexham.
Wales Rugby League president Mike Nicholas, the former Warrington and Wales forward who is helping to broker the deal with Wrexham owner Geoff Moss, described the move as "growing pains" but insisted the future remains bright for rugby league in Wales.
"It's part of the growing process of the club," he said. "It's a short-term pain for the long-term gain.
"It's very close to being finalised. We're on the verge of a big breakthrough."
Crusaders' current owner, Leighton Samuel, is thought to be ready to cut his losses and hand over the club to Moss, a Chester businessman who has come up with the financial backing that failed to materialise in south Wales.
The Racecourse Ground had already been earmarked to host the opening game of engage Super League XV, the Crusaders' clash with defending champions Leeds Rhinos on January 29, and will now become their latest home.
<EDITED>
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.halifaxcourier.co.uk/local/Rugby-League--Welsh-seal.5891790.jp&usg=AFQjCNHiSNt1i-pue5Hrpy6Ftu_-mEPE7g
Super League: Crusaders seal move north
Published Date: 08 December 2009
Super League's fledging club, Crusaders, are putting the finishing touches to a controversial deal that will see them move lock, stock and barrel from south Wales to Wrexham.
The former Bridgend club will be based at the Racecourse Ground from 2010, sharing a home with the Blue Square Pemier football team, although they will not sever all ties with the south.
The move will leave the Crusaders just 32 miles from Widnes, one of the club's they beat - largely on geographical grounds - to a top flight franchise 18 months ago.
The club intend to stage several matches "on the road", probably in Neath, which is the intended home for a new Championship One club.
It is a reversal of the original plans of the club, who in August announced a move from Bridgend to Newport's Rodney Parade in a bid to attract more investment but with the intention of some playing matches in Wrexham.
Wales Rugby League president Mike Nicholas, the former Warrington and Wales forward who is helping to broker the deal with Wrexham owner Geoff Moss, described the move as "growing pains" but insisted the future remains bright for rugby league in Wales.
"It's part of the growing process of the club," he said. "It's a short-term pain for the long-term gain.
"It's very close to being finalised. We're on the verge of a big breakthrough."
Crusaders' current owner, Leighton Samuel, is thought to be ready to cut his losses and hand over the club to Moss, a Chester businessman who has come up with the financial backing that failed to materialise in south Wales.
The Racecourse Ground had already been earmarked to host the opening game of engage Super League XV, the Crusaders' clash with defending champions Leeds Rhinos on January 29, and will now become their latest home.
<EDITED>
Nash the Shark
Grey Nurse
Well there ya go folks ...looks like we been well and truly shafted ....first they tell us we movin to Newport which was further 30 mins from bridgend (2 hrs from my house ) now its up other end of bloody Wales (4hrs from my house ) so thats that for me and Crusaders ....only one tiny bit of good news ...ther will be a new RL team in Sth Wales in the lower leagues which is actually 30 mins closer to my house but still hour and bit from me ..............................................what a load of **** ....club treated us like Mushrooms ..(kept in dark and fed ****) ....only one question I have to ask now is .........can i Change my name here and keep posts and my Rep Power as i dont wanna start all over again but dont want the Crusader bit on my name ....unless of course the new team is called Something Crusaders lol
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Last TackleCrusaders make double signingLast TackleHe has played in the NRL for Cronulla, St George, Penrith and Canterbury, but was playing in France with Pia before Thunder moved for him last May. ...
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/news_2961-crusaders-make-double-signing.html&usg=AFQjCNFclMDXcYBJutUVxCiSCcERXC575Q
Crusaders make double signing
20 Dec 2009
James Gordon
Crusaders have began preparing for life at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground with the signing of two Australians.
Full back Nick Youngquest, 26, moves to the club from Gateshead, having left the North East side after their parent company collapsed last month. He has played in the NRL for Cronulla, St George, Penrith and Canterbury, but was playing in France with Pia before Thunder moved for him last May.
He is joined in the Crusaders 2010 squad by back-rower Frank Winterstein who has signed from Wakefield.
Winterstein, 23, only joined the Wildcats at the beginning of 2009 but saw appearances restricted due to a broken jaw.
Anthony Seibold said: “They are adapting well to life within the Crusaders 2010 system. It will be exciting for all when they wear the Crusaders strip for the very first time.”
The duo join ex-Hull hooker Tommy Lee in Brian Noble's squad for next season, while the club also rumoured to have signed Michael Witt and Matt Utai.
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/news_2961-crusaders-make-double-signing.html&usg=AFQjCNFclMDXcYBJutUVxCiSCcERXC575Q
Crusaders make double signing
20 Dec 2009
James Gordon
Crusaders have began preparing for life at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground with the signing of two Australians.
Full back Nick Youngquest, 26, moves to the club from Gateshead, having left the North East side after their parent company collapsed last month. He has played in the NRL for Cronulla, St George, Penrith and Canterbury, but was playing in France with Pia before Thunder moved for him last May.
He is joined in the Crusaders 2010 squad by back-rower Frank Winterstein who has signed from Wakefield.
Winterstein, 23, only joined the Wildcats at the beginning of 2009 but saw appearances restricted due to a broken jaw.
Anthony Seibold said: “They are adapting well to life within the Crusaders 2010 system. It will be exciting for all when they wear the Crusaders strip for the very first time.”
The duo join ex-Hull hooker Tommy Lee in Brian Noble's squad for next season, while the club also rumoured to have signed Michael Witt and Matt Utai.
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Crusaders aiming to add Mason as Youngquest and Winterstein sign
Crusaders aiming to add Mason as Youngquest and Winterstein signIndependentCrusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. ...and more »
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/rugby-league/crusaders-aiming-to-add-mason-as-youngquest-and-winterstein-sign-1847402.html&usg=AFQjCNE2K129myW_axoh1yzjkkl_J_6Dsg
Crusaders aiming to add Mason as Youngquest and Winterstein sign
By Dave Hadfield
22 December 2009
Crusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. The relocated Welsh Super League club, who play their first game at Wrexham at the end of January, have recruited the Australian Nick Youngquest, who impressed at full-back for Gateshead in the Co-operative Championship this year.
He is joined by Frank Winterstein, Australian-born but a Samoan international, who played alongside Youngquest at the Canterbury Bulldogs. Winterstein joined Wakefield midway through last season, but was restricted to six substitute appearances by a broken jaw. The unlikely prospect of signing Mason, one of Australia's most recognisable players, would be a far bigger coup for Brian Noble and his club.
Mason's Australian club, the Sydney Roosters, have told him to find another club after losing patience with his off-field behaviour. Noble could also be interested in Gareth Raynor, the Great Britain winger who had his contract cancelled by Hull last week, but the player is unlikely to be available until after a court case involving fraud and counterfeiting charges in March.
Crusaders aiming to add Mason as Youngquest and Winterstein signIndependentCrusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. ...and more »
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/general/rugby-league/crusaders-aiming-to-add-mason-as-youngquest-and-winterstein-sign-1847402.html&usg=AFQjCNE2K129myW_axoh1yzjkkl_J_6Dsg
Crusaders aiming to add Mason as Youngquest and Winterstein sign
By Dave Hadfield
22 December 2009
Crusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. The relocated Welsh Super League club, who play their first game at Wrexham at the end of January, have recruited the Australian Nick Youngquest, who impressed at full-back for Gateshead in the Co-operative Championship this year.
He is joined by Frank Winterstein, Australian-born but a Samoan international, who played alongside Youngquest at the Canterbury Bulldogs. Winterstein joined Wakefield midway through last season, but was restricted to six substitute appearances by a broken jaw. The unlikely prospect of signing Mason, one of Australia's most recognisable players, would be a far bigger coup for Brian Noble and his club.
Mason's Australian club, the Sydney Roosters, have told him to find another club after losing patience with his off-field behaviour. Noble could also be interested in Gareth Raynor, the Great Britain winger who had his contract cancelled by Hull last week, but the player is unlikely to be available until after a court case involving fraud and counterfeiting charges in March.
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Last TackleCrusaders gossipLast TackleBrian Noble faces a race against time to build his squad for 2010 after Crusaders finally confirmed their move to Wrexham. Here are a few rumours of players ...and more »
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/feature_1676-crusaders-gossip.html&usg=AFQjCNEnnAnSyIrbOh2hXDaZFkdradzyRg
Crusaders gossip
22 Dec 2009
James Gordon
Brian Noble faces a race against time to build his squad for 2010 after Crusaders finally confirmed their move to Wrexham. Here are a few rumours of players he's chasing.
Willie Mason (Sydney to Crusaders)
Crusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. The relocated Welsh Super League club, who play their first game at Wrexham at the end of January, have recruited the Australian Nick Youngquest, who impressed at full-back for Gateshead in the Co-operative Championship this year. He is joined by Frank Winterstein, Australian-born but a Samoan international, who played alongside Youngquest at the Canterbury Bulldogs. Winterstein joined Wakefield midway through last season, but was restricted to six substitute appearances by a broken jaw. The unlikely prospect of signing Mason, one of Australia's most recognisable players, would be a far bigger coup for Brian Noble and his club. (Source: The Independent)
Gareth Raynor (Hull to Crusaders)
Noble could also be interested in Gareth Raynor, the Great Britain winger who had his contract cancelled by Hull last week, but the player is unlikely to be available until after a court case involving fraud and counterfeiting charges in March. (Source: The Independent)
Paul Cooke (Hull KR to Crusaders)
Paul Cooke has turned down a move to Crusaders for the 2010 season, according to the Hull Daily Mail. Cooke has one year remaining on his contract at Craven Park, where he is one of the top earners on £125,000 per year. The Mail understands he has been warned the club are unlikely to extend his deal beyond next season – and he is free to leave Craven Park if he can find another club. But with 12 months left on his lucrative contract, the 28-year-old is keen to stay in his home town in a bid to win silverware. Crusaders coach Brian Noble approached KR about the possibility of speaking to Cooke four or five weeks ago, but he immediately rejected the proposal. (Source: Hull Daily Mail)
Tony Martin (Wakefield to Crusaders)
Wakefield Wildcats centre Tony Martin has been linked with a move to Super League rivals Crusaders. The Australian's contract at Belle Vue expires this month and he's expected to leave the Hearwell Stadium and link-up with a new club for the 2010 campaign. Welsh club Crusaders, under the guidance of new head coach Brian Noble, have emerged as front-runners for his signature, with Martin seemingly unable to agree a new deal with Wakefield. (Source: Wakefield Express)
Have you heard any rumours? Share them with us below!
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/feature_1676-crusaders-gossip.html&usg=AFQjCNEnnAnSyIrbOh2hXDaZFkdradzyRg
Crusaders gossip
22 Dec 2009
James Gordon
Brian Noble faces a race against time to build his squad for 2010 after Crusaders finally confirmed their move to Wrexham. Here are a few rumours of players he's chasing.
Willie Mason (Sydney to Crusaders)
Crusaders have confirmed their first two overseas signings for next season and hope Willie Mason could be the third. The relocated Welsh Super League club, who play their first game at Wrexham at the end of January, have recruited the Australian Nick Youngquest, who impressed at full-back for Gateshead in the Co-operative Championship this year. He is joined by Frank Winterstein, Australian-born but a Samoan international, who played alongside Youngquest at the Canterbury Bulldogs. Winterstein joined Wakefield midway through last season, but was restricted to six substitute appearances by a broken jaw. The unlikely prospect of signing Mason, one of Australia's most recognisable players, would be a far bigger coup for Brian Noble and his club. (Source: The Independent)
Gareth Raynor (Hull to Crusaders)
Noble could also be interested in Gareth Raynor, the Great Britain winger who had his contract cancelled by Hull last week, but the player is unlikely to be available until after a court case involving fraud and counterfeiting charges in March. (Source: The Independent)
Paul Cooke (Hull KR to Crusaders)
Paul Cooke has turned down a move to Crusaders for the 2010 season, according to the Hull Daily Mail. Cooke has one year remaining on his contract at Craven Park, where he is one of the top earners on £125,000 per year. The Mail understands he has been warned the club are unlikely to extend his deal beyond next season – and he is free to leave Craven Park if he can find another club. But with 12 months left on his lucrative contract, the 28-year-old is keen to stay in his home town in a bid to win silverware. Crusaders coach Brian Noble approached KR about the possibility of speaking to Cooke four or five weeks ago, but he immediately rejected the proposal. (Source: Hull Daily Mail)
Tony Martin (Wakefield to Crusaders)
Wakefield Wildcats centre Tony Martin has been linked with a move to Super League rivals Crusaders. The Australian's contract at Belle Vue expires this month and he's expected to leave the Hearwell Stadium and link-up with a new club for the 2010 campaign. Welsh club Crusaders, under the guidance of new head coach Brian Noble, have emerged as front-runners for his signature, with Martin seemingly unable to agree a new deal with Wakefield. (Source: Wakefield Express)
Have you heard any rumours? Share them with us below!
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Brisbane TimesBring back Willie: Crusaders plan to snare MasonBrisbane TimesHowever, The Sun-Herald understands at least four NRL clubs, including the Sharks, Manly and Melbourne, are also chasing the former international, ...
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/bring-back-willie-crusaders-plan-to-snare-mason-20091226-lfou.html&usg=AFQjCNFNvGAHqQBFhME1r_-Jn1N66Cfivg
Bring back Willie: Crusaders plan to snare Mason
DANIEL LANE AND JOSH RAKIC
December 26, 2009
AN ENGLAND-based rugby league agent spent the Christmas week in Sydney trying to nut out a deal to lure Roosters renegade Willie Mason to the Brian Noble-coached Celtic Crusaders in the English Super League.
However, The Sun-Herald understands at least four NRL clubs, including the Sharks, Manly and Melbourne, are also chasing the former international, who was granted an extended break by Roosters coach Brian Smith to organise a playing future elsewhere.
Mason is said to be in such demand from rival NRL clubs that he's deciding which of the teams vying for his services will provide him with the best chance to add another grand final victory to the title he won in 2004 with the Bulldogs.
He had been linked with the Melbourne Storm, but while former Eels and Roosters halfback Brett Finch has advised his friend to jump at any opportunity to relocate to Victoria because the Storm makes a player ''a better person'', the premiers denied a recent report that they had met Mason.
Mick Robinson, an English-based Australian agent, refused to discuss the state of negotiations, but it is understood the Crusaders want Mason as their marquee signing. Mason had hoped to follow Craig Wing by landing a lucrative contract with Japanese rugby, but that is appearing more and more unlikely.
Mason's days as a first-grader with the Roosters appear numbered, having been given ''leave'' by Smith to negotiate a deal elsewhere. If Mason does not find a new home - and soon - he could spend next season trotting out for the Roosters' feeder club, Newtown.
While that might sound like easy money for a player who, on his day, is still one of the code's most destructive forwards, his stint in the NSW Cup would have a detrimental impact on his worth when his $450,000-a-year contract with the Roosters expires.
Despite Mason's reputation for being disruptive, Robinson was adamant he would have a positive impact on the Crusaders.
''I know of some of the great things Willie has done that go unreported,'' he said. ''A friend of mine had a child who was very ill, and Willie Mason couldn't do enough for the family. He is a good bloke, and the Crusaders are offering him a challenge.''
Geoff Moss, a Wrexham businessman who owns the club, is determined to make the franchise a success and is exploiting a loophole that allows the venture to sign up to 14 Australian and New Zealand players. Nick Youngquest, Michael Witt, Ryan O'Hara, Lincoln Withers, Jason Chan, Adam Peek and Terry Martin could be Mason's new teammates should he make the move to Wales.
There was a suggestion that Parramatta's Kiwi international Krisnan Inu could also be among the group, but Eels CEO Paul Osborne said there was no chance of Inu being released. The centre is certain to feature in coach Daniel Anderson's premiership plans in 2010.
Osborne did confirm forward Weller Hauraki was granted a release and it was expected he would join the Anzac influx at the Crusaders.
The Crusaders made headlines during the season when up to six players, including Queensland Origin player Josh Hannay, were deported from the UK for having breached entry conditions in a previous year.
While the club is expected to escape any additional legal charges, it was expected to be fined more than $100,000, which is in line with penalties handed down to employers who hire illegal workers.
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/rugby-league/league-news/bring-back-willie-crusaders-plan-to-snare-mason-20091226-lfou.html&usg=AFQjCNFNvGAHqQBFhME1r_-Jn1N66Cfivg
Bring back Willie: Crusaders plan to snare Mason
DANIEL LANE AND JOSH RAKIC
December 26, 2009
AN ENGLAND-based rugby league agent spent the Christmas week in Sydney trying to nut out a deal to lure Roosters renegade Willie Mason to the Brian Noble-coached Celtic Crusaders in the English Super League.
However, The Sun-Herald understands at least four NRL clubs, including the Sharks, Manly and Melbourne, are also chasing the former international, who was granted an extended break by Roosters coach Brian Smith to organise a playing future elsewhere.
Mason is said to be in such demand from rival NRL clubs that he's deciding which of the teams vying for his services will provide him with the best chance to add another grand final victory to the title he won in 2004 with the Bulldogs.
He had been linked with the Melbourne Storm, but while former Eels and Roosters halfback Brett Finch has advised his friend to jump at any opportunity to relocate to Victoria because the Storm makes a player ''a better person'', the premiers denied a recent report that they had met Mason.
Mick Robinson, an English-based Australian agent, refused to discuss the state of negotiations, but it is understood the Crusaders want Mason as their marquee signing. Mason had hoped to follow Craig Wing by landing a lucrative contract with Japanese rugby, but that is appearing more and more unlikely.
Mason's days as a first-grader with the Roosters appear numbered, having been given ''leave'' by Smith to negotiate a deal elsewhere. If Mason does not find a new home - and soon - he could spend next season trotting out for the Roosters' feeder club, Newtown.
While that might sound like easy money for a player who, on his day, is still one of the code's most destructive forwards, his stint in the NSW Cup would have a detrimental impact on his worth when his $450,000-a-year contract with the Roosters expires.
Despite Mason's reputation for being disruptive, Robinson was adamant he would have a positive impact on the Crusaders.
''I know of some of the great things Willie has done that go unreported,'' he said. ''A friend of mine had a child who was very ill, and Willie Mason couldn't do enough for the family. He is a good bloke, and the Crusaders are offering him a challenge.''
Geoff Moss, a Wrexham businessman who owns the club, is determined to make the franchise a success and is exploiting a loophole that allows the venture to sign up to 14 Australian and New Zealand players. Nick Youngquest, Michael Witt, Ryan O'Hara, Lincoln Withers, Jason Chan, Adam Peek and Terry Martin could be Mason's new teammates should he make the move to Wales.
There was a suggestion that Parramatta's Kiwi international Krisnan Inu could also be among the group, but Eels CEO Paul Osborne said there was no chance of Inu being released. The centre is certain to feature in coach Daniel Anderson's premiership plans in 2010.
Osborne did confirm forward Weller Hauraki was granted a release and it was expected he would join the Anzac influx at the Crusaders.
The Crusaders made headlines during the season when up to six players, including Queensland Origin player Josh Hannay, were deported from the UK for having breached entry conditions in a previous year.
While the club is expected to escape any additional legal charges, it was expected to be fined more than $100,000, which is in line with penalties handed down to employers who hire illegal workers.
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Crusaders sign dual-code KiwiLast TackleHe went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League before his switch to union. ...
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/news_3025-crusaders-sign-dual-code-kiwi.html&usg=AFQjCNH3nKzyft9XkQH4zT1W97Uo4r6JAQ
Crusaders sign dual-code Kiwi
15 Jan 2010
Correspondent
Crusaders Rugby League Club have signed Vince Mellars, a centre who used to be on the books of Crusaders Rugby Union side in New Zealand.
Mellars spent a year with the Super 14 club in 2008 but this was just a short break in his rugby league career.
He spent last season with NSW Cup side, Auckland Vulcans, the feeder team for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.
The 25-year old, who can play on the wing or at centre, was born in Wellington, New Zealand and was brought up playing rugby league for junior sides in the area.
He signed for the Warriors as a teenager and made his NRL debut aged 19.
He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League before his switch to union.
Mellars will join his new Crusaders squad next week.
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://www.lasttackle.com/news_3025-crusaders-sign-dual-code-kiwi.html&usg=AFQjCNH3nKzyft9XkQH4zT1W97Uo4r6JAQ
Crusaders sign dual-code Kiwi
15 Jan 2010
Correspondent
Crusaders Rugby League Club have signed Vince Mellars, a centre who used to be on the books of Crusaders Rugby Union side in New Zealand.
Mellars spent a year with the Super 14 club in 2008 but this was just a short break in his rugby league career.
He spent last season with NSW Cup side, Auckland Vulcans, the feeder team for New Zealand Warriors in the NRL.
The 25-year old, who can play on the wing or at centre, was born in Wellington, New Zealand and was brought up playing rugby league for junior sides in the area.
He signed for the Warriors as a teenager and made his NRL debut aged 19.
He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League before his switch to union.
Mellars will join his new Crusaders squad next week.
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Crusaders sign GB prop Thackray
BBC SportCrusaders sign GB prop ThackrayBBC SportMellars, 25, started his professional career with the New Zealand Warriors and made his NRL debut aged 19. He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks ...and more »
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_league/super_league/celtic_crusaders/8461753.stm&usg=AFQjCNEppjzyAEYnFIbPDhl8UYv8DaXudg
Crusaders sign GB prop Thackray
Page last updated at 14:24 GMT, 15 January 2010
Crusaders have bolstered their squad ahead of the start of the Super League season by signing Great Britain international Jamie Thackray.
The 30-year-old prop joins the Welsh club following a year with Hull FC.
Coach Brian Noble has also tempted former Cronulla Sharks three-quarter Vince Mellars to sign for the club.
Both will join the Crusaders next week to prepare for the opening match of the season against Leeds Rhinos in Wrexham on Friday, 29 January.
Thackray has a wealth of Super League experience to his name, having played 180 times in Europe's elite competition for the Rhinos, Hull FC, Castleford Tigers and Halifax.
All three of his GB caps came in 1995 during Noble's reign as Lions coach.
"I'm very much looking forward to it, especially as the first game is against my old club Leeds Rhinos," Thackray said. "What better way is there to start?
"I'm delighted to have signed for the Crusaders. I've played under Brian [Noble] and Jon Sharp [assistant coach] for Great Britain but I'm looking forward to working for Iestyn Harris [assistant coach] for the first time.
"Everyone speaks highly of this new coaching team at the Crusaders and I can't wait to get started."
Mellars, 25, started his professional career with the New Zealand Warriors and made his NRL debut aged 19.
He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters, as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League, before his switching to the union game in 2008 with Canterbury Crusaders.
The move to the 15-man games last only a year, though, and he returned to the 13-man games last season to play for NSW Cup side Auckland Vulcans.
BBC SportCrusaders sign GB prop ThackrayBBC SportMellars, 25, started his professional career with the New Zealand Warriors and made his NRL debut aged 19. He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks ...and more »
Source: http://news.google.com/news/url?fd=R&sa=T&url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/rugby_league/super_league/celtic_crusaders/8461753.stm&usg=AFQjCNEppjzyAEYnFIbPDhl8UYv8DaXudg
Crusaders sign GB prop Thackray
Page last updated at 14:24 GMT, 15 January 2010
Crusaders have bolstered their squad ahead of the start of the Super League season by signing Great Britain international Jamie Thackray.
The 30-year-old prop joins the Welsh club following a year with Hull FC.
Coach Brian Noble has also tempted former Cronulla Sharks three-quarter Vince Mellars to sign for the club.
Both will join the Crusaders next week to prepare for the opening match of the season against Leeds Rhinos in Wrexham on Friday, 29 January.
Thackray has a wealth of Super League experience to his name, having played 180 times in Europe's elite competition for the Rhinos, Hull FC, Castleford Tigers and Halifax.
All three of his GB caps came in 1995 during Noble's reign as Lions coach.
"I'm very much looking forward to it, especially as the first game is against my old club Leeds Rhinos," Thackray said. "What better way is there to start?
"I'm delighted to have signed for the Crusaders. I've played under Brian [Noble] and Jon Sharp [assistant coach] for Great Britain but I'm looking forward to working for Iestyn Harris [assistant coach] for the first time.
"Everyone speaks highly of this new coaching team at the Crusaders and I can't wait to get started."
Mellars, 25, started his professional career with the New Zealand Warriors and made his NRL debut aged 19.
He went on to play for NRL clubs Cronulla Sharks and Sydney Roosters, as well as Newtown Jets in the NSW Premier League, before his switching to the union game in 2008 with Canterbury Crusaders.
The move to the 15-man games last only a year, though, and he returned to the 13-man games last season to play for NSW Cup side Auckland Vulcans.