Roosters forward agrees Quins move
Sydney Roosters star Nick Kouparitsas has agreed to terms with Harlequins RL on a one year deal that will see the former Rooster move to England for the 2011 season, subject to a medical and visa.
The 26 year old, Greek international, started his NRL career at the Canterbury Bulldogs in 2006. During that time Kouparitsas took part in the historic first Rugby League match to take place in Greece, which was played in Athens on the 28 October, 2006 when Greece beat Serbia 44–26. The ball playing forward subsequently moved to the Roosters in 2009, playing 23 games for them in 2010 leading up to the NRL Grand Final.
Kouparitsas spoke of his delight on his move from the Roosters, he said: “This is a superb opportunity for me to play Super League in England while I am still young and can show once again that I have the ability to produce at the highest level in a very strong competition. I’m looking forward to the new challenge ahead and look forward to linking with Harlequins Acting Head Coach, Rob Powell, and the rest of the squad.
“To play for a club like Harlequins RL is something I am looking forward to and the challenges that lie ahead. I’m delighted to have signed with Harlequins RL and I am confident of getting back to rediscovering my best form at the club,” he concluded.
Rob Powell, Acting Head Coach for Harlequins RL, is looking forward to welcoming Nick into the London team. “This is an exciting signing for the club. Nick has played 23 games for a team who Brian Smith coached to the Grand Final this year. Nick is a very versatile ball playing forward, giving him a niche in the game. He spent most of this year at hooker, however, in the past he has played back row and loose forward.
“I’ve been very impressed when speaking with Nick and he comes highly recommended from the Roosters’ coaching staff. Along with his ability as a ball player, he is a good runner on the edge with the potential to offload and make breaks and also has strong defensive qualities. I am confident he is a great all-round signing for Harlequins RL,” confirmed Powell.