Hawke's Bay Today

Warriors snatch touted half away from the Roosters

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Sydney Roosters halfback Ronald Volkman, rated one of rugby league’s hottest prospects, has been signed by the Warriors for three seasons from 2023.

The Vodafone Warriors fended off approaches from a number of rival clubs to secure the gifted teenager and further bolster their roster for next season and beyond.

They’ve already secured experience­d Manly centre Dylan Walker, seasoned Newcastle second rower Mitchell Barnett, Parramatta second rower Marata

Niukore and Cronulla playmaker Luke Metcalf for 2023 onwards.

“Ronald is an exceptiona­l young talent who will add another dimension to our squad,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Craig Hodges.

“When we signed Reece Walsh around this time last year, he hadn’t played in the NRL but it was obvious he would very soon and make an immediate impact.

“Ronald is the same. He has wonderful skills and is just waiting for his chance in the NRL.”

Volkman, who’s of Samoan heritage, had an outstandin­g schoolboy rugby union career before being signed by the Roosters.

Touted in the pre-season as one of the players to watch, he has found himself in a queue of playmakers behind Luke Keary, Sam Walker, Drew Hutchinson and Lachlan Lam.

He has so far had a handful of games for Roosters feeder club North Sydney in the New South Wales Cup.

In six appearance­s last year he finished with seven try assists and five line break assists.

Also a goal kicker, he has come through the grades playing for the Roosters at under-16, under-18 and under-20 level.

 ?? Photo / Supplied ?? Ronald Volkman has been spoken of as a player to watch.
Photo / Supplied Ronald Volkman has been spoken of as a player to watch.

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