Lopini Paea becomes a Wildcat

Wakefield Wildcats have confirmed that Lopini Paeae will be joining them from Catalan Dragons next season.

The Tongan international prop forward, 30, has signed a one-year deal.

“It’s a new challenge for me, a new lifestyle and I feel like a big kid starting all over again,” said the player.

“I’m really looking forward to coming to Wakefield and recapturing some of my best form again.  I’ve been really impressed with the way the team have been playing for each other since James Webster has taken over and as a player that’s something you want to be part of.

“I’ve spoken to him a couple of times and I was really impressed with what he had to say.”

Paea has made 76 appearances for the Dragons, including 19 this season. He has previously played for Sydney Roosters in the NRL.

“I think we’ll have a good balance of options in there,” the player added.

“There’s some experience, some grunt and some impact.  We all bring our different styles and I think they can complement each other to help take the team forward.

“The stakes are raised with the new structure for next year and I think the desire for teams to be in the top eight will be even higher than ever.  I think Castleford have shown what can be achieved this year with hard work and I see a similar potential for Wakefield to make an impact and be part of the top eight in 2015.”

Trinity coach James Webster is delighted to have added a player of such experience and power to his squad.

“He’s an experienced player and been a pivotal part of what is a very big and aggressive pack at Catalans,” said Webster.

“We’re extremely happy to have him with us for next year.

“I think we’re well covered with Simon, Scruton, Anderson, Paea and Daniel Smith coming through as well.  We’re looking a lot stronger in that area for next year.”