Latest News

23rd July

Australian fly-half Manny Edmonds has signed a short-term playing contract with Top 14 heavyweights Perpignan as a 'medical joker.' The Catalan club have been struck by a spate of injuries including fly-half Nicolas Laharrague, who is set to be sidelined for two to three months, hence the need for cover. Manny had already joined USAP as a coach of their youth team's backline but has been asked to lace up his boots again and has signed an initial three-month contract after completing a medical test on Thursday.

16th July

St Helens Samoan star Maurie Fa'asavalu has signed for rugby union club Harlequins. Maurie is no stranger to the union code having played for Samoa in the 2003 Rugby World Cup. He was signed by St Helens in the winter of 2003 and converted to Rugby League. Maurie has made 164 appearances for St Helens and debuted for the Great Britain RL team in 2007. Maurie will link up with the Quins squad in October and is expected to be fully recovered from his shoulder surgery by that time.

7th July

We are delighted to announce that Cardiff Blues and Wales U20s star Josh Navidi has signed with Phoenix Sports Management. Josh captained his country during the U20 6 Nations and was named vice-captain in last month's Junior World Cup in Argentina. A powerful openside flanker, Josh plans on filling the boots of Welsh legend Martin Williams in the near future. Welcome Josh, we very much look forward to working with you and wish you a long and successful career.

6th July

Super Rugby's newest team the Melbourne Rebels have signed its 28th recruit with the announcement that Toulon fullback Luke Rooney will return to Australia from France for the 2011 Super rugby season. A former Australian rugby league winger, 27 year old Rooney played six times for the Kangaroos before switching codes in 2008 to join Toulon where he scored five tries in 16 games during his first season of Top 14 French Championship rugby. After playing alongside England fly-half Jonny Wilkinson and fellow convert, Sonny Bill Williams, Rooney can't wait to test himself against the best in Super Rugby. "I was keen to come home and have a crack at Super Rugby because it's the best competition in the world and it's going to get better next year with the Rebels coming on board." he said.

6th July

Sale Sharks are delighted to announce the signing of powerhouse prop Karena Wihongi from Bourgoin on a two year deal. Karena is an experienced front row operator, able to use his 125 kilo weight to cause disruption in the tight and the loose. Although born in New Zealand, Karena has French nationality and will no doubt make his international debut this season. Sale Head Coach Mike Brewer said, “ The signing of Karena is great news for the club. He was on my priority list as soon as I was appointed and was delighted when he signed on the dotted line. Karena had a number of offers from various clubs and the fact that he has chosen Sale Sharks is significant."