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Wakefield Wildcats: New-boy Aiton itching to get started
Paul Aiton in match action.
Wakefield Trinity Wildcats have added more strength to their squad for 2012 with the signing of hooker Paul Aiton on a two-year deal, subject to a successful visa application.
The Papua New Guinea international, 26, becomes signing number 17 at the Rapid Solicitors Stadium for Super League XVII and follows in the footsteps of countrymen Stanley Gene and Makali Aizue in heading to the northern hemisphere’s elite rugby league competition.
Aiton has 39 caps for his country and captained the Kumuls during their Four Nations debut in 2010.
His National Rugby League career began at Penrith Panthers with whom he first signed a full-time deal in 2003 ahead of making his debut in 2006. Two years later he earned his first international honours against Australia.
Challenge
In 2010 he joined Cronulla Sharks having turned out over 70 times for the Panthers. After 31 appearances in two seasons with the Sydney-based outfit he is set for a fresh challenge with the Wildcats.
“I had certain goals that I wanted to achieve in the NRL and I’ve achieved those,” said Aiton.
“Another goal of mine was to play in the Super League and there were a couple of clubs interested in me but I met with Richard Agar when he was in Australia and from the way he spoke about the club I wanted to be part of the rebuilding.
“The Super League seems to be a very attacking type of rugby, fast around the ruck and I think that will suit my game. Hopefully I can bring some of my experience to the squad and some creativity as well.”
Aiton has previously been a teammate of fellow new recruits Tim Smith and Dean Collis.
“Paul is a tough and committed player with a real strength of character who plays the game very quick and direct,” said Wildcats coach Richard Agar.
“He’s a proven performer in the NRL and on the international stage with PNG where he has shown tremendous leadership qualities as their captain.
“As well as playing hooker he’ll fill a number of other roles for us too. He’s a very experienced and high quality performer.”
Wakefield have also snapped up former Leeds, Wigan and Warrington full-back Richard Mathers on a season-long loan from arch rivals Castleford.
The 28-year-old Mathers is just 12 months into a three-year contract with Cas but has been told he does not figure in the plans of new coach Ian Millward. Castleford have also forfeited the right to recall Mathers during 2012 and say he will be allowed to play against them.
“Richard will bring a number of qualities to our club,” said Agar.
“He’s highly respected by his peers and he’s been a winner throughout his career.
“He’ll set a great example as we try and establish our own standards and cultures within the club.”
Mathers, who won back-to-back Challenge Cup finals with Warrington has travelled with the squad to north Wales for a three-day training camp this weekend.
“It couldn’t have worked out any better really,” said Mathers.
“It’s a whole new squad as we all know. The boys have been back eight or nine weeks now so it will be good to get down to Wales, make a few friends and get into the structures that Richard has spoken about.”
Meanwhile, Wildcats half-back Gareth Moore will not be joining York City Knights.
Moore had been in talks with York but he has stated his desire to stay at Wakefield and fight for his place in Agar’s side.
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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