Vikings reel in Kite

Widnes have announced the signing of Sione ‘John’ Kite from Melbourne Storm on a one-year deal, subject to 24-year-old receiving the necessary visa.

The prop forward will add size and presence to the Vikings pack, weighing in at 18 stone and standing 6ft 5ins tall.

Kite had a stint in the NRL with Canterbury Bulldogs in 2008 and 2009 before switching the Melbourne where he has spent the last two seasons. He was also a member of the 2008 Tongan World Cup squad.

The Vikings 16th signing ahead of the 2012 season has been handed the number 18 jersey and Head Coach Denis Betts is looking forward to having the enforcer in the squad.

“John is a big man and a good athlete, and I’m confident he will do a great job for us.

“Moving to the other side of the world and to another competition isn’t an easy decision for a young man to make, but John is looking forward to the challenge and is backing himself to make an impression on Super League.

“He’s been training with Canterbury back home and will arrive in good shape and ready for action.”