Newcastle Knights sign New Zealand schoolboy rugby star Ofa Manuofetoa

NEWCASTLE have reportedly signed a New Zealand schoolboy rugby union star on the back of just three games in rugby league.

Knights coach Nathan Brown has taken a punt on a giant rugby schoolboy from NZ.

NEWCASTLE have reportedly signed a New Zealand schoolboy rugby union star on the back of just three games in rugby league.

Ofa Manuofetoa was spotted by Knights scouts while making his debut in the 13-man game at an under-17 tournament in Rotorua this year, according tostuff.co.nz.

The 17-year-old stands at 193cm and 104kg, but played fullback for his Canterbury-based Timaru Boys’ High School rugby first XV.

“I’ve been studying a booklet with the basics (of rugby league) which I am trying to get my head around,” Manuofetoa told stuff.co.nz.

“It’s pretty exciting but I have a lot to learn.

“I expect it will be tough but I will give it my best shot.”

He is expected to play with the Knights under-18s before graduating to the Holden Cup for under-20s.

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Originally published as Newcastle Knights sign New Zealand schoolboy rugby star Ofa Manuofetoa