Wolves Sign Saint Anderson

Warrington Wolves have signed New Zealand international second rower and centre Vinnie Anderson, 27 from St Helens paying a £50k transfer fee; on a three year deal from the start of Engage Super League XII. Vinnie joined Saints in March 2005 from New Zealand Warriors and had a blistering start to the season, but was hampered by injury the second half of the year. He made a full recovery for the 2006 season and played in 21 games scoring 6 tries.

He has represented the New Zealand national side on five occasions to date and is brother of fellow international Louis Anderson and Brisbane Broncos' winger Frazer Anderson.

His position of choice is at lock forward, though he has been utilised by St. Helens most often in the second row and can also play in the centres. Anderson has carved a reputation for his tough tackling and good ball skills.

Vinnie started his playing career as a prop with Belrose in the Manly Warringah district, having moved to Australia with his family at the age of 9. This career was short lived when he returned to boarding school in Hamilton, New Zealand at the age of 15. When he left school at the age of 18, he married and went on to do a four year building apprenticeship followed by a year travelling in the United States. Whilst in the US he decided to return to a career in rugby league and in 2001 at the age of 21 started playing for the East Coast Bays. He was spotted by the Mt Albert Lions coach John Ackland who brought him in to play in the Bartercard Cup.

In 2002 New Zealand Warriors offered Vinnie a part time contract, which became a full-time one, but still based at Mt Albert, pending a first grade call up. He went on to make his Warriors debut as substitute against Cronulla in July 2002, at the age of 23. Vinnie progressed to the international scene fifteen months after making his NRL debut, scoring two tries as the Kiwis beat Australia 30-16 in October 2003 at North Harbour.

Vinnie Anderson commented on joining the Wolves; "Yeah I am looking forward to working with Paul and I think Warrington had a good season this year and have made good signings for next season. They are definitely a team on the rise with high goals and I want to be a part of that."

Head Coach Paul Cullen commented on his latest signing, "Vinnie is another player of international standard whose talents offensively and defensively will be a great asset."