Vila Halafihi leaves Bradford for Hunslet

Hunslet have signed Bradford hooker Vila Halafihi.

Halafihi, 24, was part of the Bulls’ promotion winning campaign last season having previously been in the Leeds and Castleford academy systems.

Coach Gary Thornton said: “Vila has joined us from the Bulls where he played a major role in a promotion winning side.

“He had the opportunity to stay at Bradford, and other clubs were chasing his signature, but he wants to challenge himself and fulfil his undoubted potential, and I’m really pleased he has decided to join us.

“We want players with a winning mentality, who knows what it takes to get a team promoted, and he will add that experience to the group.

“ I’ve coached him before during his development through the Castleford academy, and he has a real hunger for success, backed up with a very professional attitude to everything he does.

“He is a very skilful and knowledgeable hooker, but is equally effective at centre or back row, so he gives us added flexibility in other areas if needed.”

Halafihi added: “I’m excited at this new challenge and I can’t wait to start pre-season training and meet all the boys.

“With the quality of recruitment at the club this year I see no reason why we shouldn’t be looking for promotion.

“GT & Darren have added some top Championship players to an already talented squad and I can’t wait to get started.”