Hull KR sign Vella

Michael Vella Interview

The Parramatta National Rugby League Club wishes to advise that player Michael Vella has today been granted a release from the final year of his playing contract in order to join newly promoted English Super League Club Hull Kingston Rovers.

The 28 year old has signed a 3 year deal.

Vella, a local junior from the Canley Vale Club attended school at Patrician Brothers Fairfield.

In all, he played 159 First Grade matches for Parramatta, making his debut in 1998.

He played 10 State of Origin matches for New South Wales between 1999 and 2002; he played 5 Test Matches for Australia and was a member of the 2000 World Cup side.

“I'm sad to be leaving but all good things have to come to an end. This is a great opportunity and I'd like to thank everyone at Parramatta for what they have done for me. I'll miss you all,” Vella said.

Parramatta Eels Chief Executive Denis Fitzgerald says Vella was a great Clubman.

“We were pleased to be able to accede to his request to play in the English Super League. He has been a wonderfully loyal player and is one of the select group of Parramatta juniors to have gone on to play for Australia,” Mr Fitzgerald said.

Vella has twice been named the Parramatta Eels Clubman of the Year and has been nominated for Life Membership of the Parramatta District Rugby League Club at December's Annual General Meeting.