Grady hails South Wales trial success

South Wales Scorpions coach Mike Grady is delighted with the results of his club’s recent open trial day.

Six new players were discovered, five Welshman and one Samoan. They now have the chance to seal a spot in the squad by impressing in preseason.

The Samoan player is 32-year old second row forward Tala Petelo, a former Harry Jepson Trophy winner with London Conference club South West London Chargers RLFC.

He has more recently been playing rugby union with Llanishen in Cardiff.

Utility forward Lewis Tutt, centres Paul Songhurst and Craig Lewis, prop Anthony Symons, and winger Danyl Davies are the Welsh contingent who will be looking to impress.

All have some prior league experience, but have played the majority of their previous rugby in the 15-man code.

“The trials we had were a great success. To see so many quality Welsh players wanting to play Rugby League was a fantastic sight,” said Grady.

“Paul Emanuelli took the day. He had a number of different stations and drills that including the basics of rugby league and a few drills under fatigue after a little conditioning that the lads responded very well to.

“We then finished on a game with everyone getting a good 20 to 25 minutes to show us what they can do.

“The game at the end was very impressive. Most of the current squad took part in the day and bought into the whole event.

“That enabled us to identify the players we will be hoping to sign and add to the squad. This will take our training squad to nearly 30 members which is a massive improvement on last year and gives myself and Paul a pre-season and time to work with everyone.

“As mentioned, the current squad that are already signed up, took part in the day and they are buzzing for pre-season and can’t wait to get playing.

“This year was enjoyable but I can see an even better one in 2015 and I can’t wait to get going.”