Nona set for Townsville
Shaun Nona (above) knocked back offers from Burleigh and Mackay to head to the Northern Pride’s greatest rivals. The Tully junior’s colourful career since leaving the Far North is set for a new adventure after the playmaker yesterday confirmed his deal with Townsville for 2017. The 26-year-old, who played Queensland Residents in 2014 and 2015 and for NSW this year, will on Sunday strive to win a second NRL State Championship.
SHAUN Nona knocked back offers from Burleigh and Mackay to head to the Northern Pride’s greatest rivals.
The Tully junior’s colourful career since leaving the Far North is set for a new adventure after the playmaker yesterday confirmed his deal with Townsville for 2017.
The 26-year-old, who played Queensland Residents in 2014 and 2015 and for NSW this year, will on Sunday strive to win a second NRL State Championship.
Nona lined up at five-eighth for the Pride in the success over Penrith two years ago and now runs out for Illawarra – coached by former Pride boss Jason Demetriou – against ISC champions Burleigh.
He will then return to North Queensland next year in a boost for the Blackhawks.
The Cairns Post understands a return to the Pride was never an option, while the Bears and Cutters headed the chase for the talented pivot.
Nona left Barlow Park on a two-year deal with Melbourne in 2015 but only lasted one season due to homesickness.
The Pride were priced out of capturing Nona again at the time, leaving Mackay to all but sign him for the 2016 season only for a controversial backflip which resulted in the player landing at Illawarra.
After time in NRL systems, the move could be Nona’s last shot at a first grade position.
He will begin pre-season with the Blackhawks late next month and his defection will add a layer of rivalry to the derby between the NQ clubs.
Townsville yesterday also signed Super League prop Lee Jewitt from Wigan.