Cutters lose star Ata Hingano after the halfback signed a two-year deal with Salford Red Devils

The former Cutter has closed the Mackay chapter, and is now turning to England for a two-year professional deal at Salford.

Ata Hingano has signed a two year deal with Salford Red Devils in England. Picture: Evan Morgan

As the curtain falls on Ata Hingano’s rugby career in Mackay, he finishes with sadness surrounding his departure but excitement for his future.

The halfback received a contract to play professional rugby league in England for the Salford Red Devils, which surprised even Hingano.

“The plan was to look into playing overseas in a year or two, but for it to present itself so soon was way too good to pass on,” he said.

“As much as I did love working here in Mackay, it’ll be good to go back into a fully professional role and doing what you love for work.”

Ata Hingano will move to England after signing with Salford. Picture: Matthew Forrest

Hingano worked as a carer for Phoenix Place, an institution that looks after people with disabilities and mental health concerns.

“My team was primarily with kids and I’ve grown a really good relationship with them and their families,” Hingano said.

“They’ve become my family since mine is in New Zealand, it was pretty hard to break the news with them all.

“They all knew the situation of me chasing my dreams, but they didn’t expect it so soon and neither did I.”

Hingano will return to New Zealand to visit his family before travelling to England.

“My whole family is in New Zealand, Salford has been really good in letting me go home to visit before moving over to the UK,” he said

“Who knows when I’ll get the chance to come home during the two years I’ve signed there.”

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Hingano will reunite with former Warriors teammate and Tongan international Tui Lolohea at Salford.

“We grew up playing at the Warriors and for Tonga in the World Cup, so it’s exciting to reunite with him,” he said.

“He’s got his own family over there now so it’ll be great to have some familiar faces over there.”

Hingano said he would miss the community in Mackay the most.

“When I first arrived, there was a real community feel to this place,” he said.

“Being a part of work, being a part of the Cutters, everyone you come into contact with are just really nice people, and that’s definitely what I’ll miss the most.”

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Originally published as Cutters lose star Ata Hingano after the halfback signed a two-year deal with Salford Red Devils