The Melbourne Rebels have pulled off a major signing coup, luring Wallabies vice-captain Will Genia to Melbourne for the next two seasons.
The 78-Test veteran returns to Australian rugby following a three-year stint in France with the signing comes just a week after the club secured it's future in the competition after the Victorian Rugby Union reclaimed ownership of the franchise.
Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson said the club was delighted to have secured the signature of a proven match-winner.
“Will is a proven winner who has performed consistently in every team has has played in at Super Rugby, European and international level,” Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson said.
“We are delighted he will join the Rebels and have great confidence that his skill set, experience and leadership will complement our squad very well.”
Previously, Genia spent nine years in Super Rugby with the Queensland Reds, where he helped deliver the 2011 Super Rugby title.
Genia stated that he was excited to be back playing in Australia with the Rebels.
“I’m very much looking forward to making an impact at the Melbourne Rebels,” Genia said.
“First and foremost my job is to perform and contribute with my playing ability and assist the team in achieving success.
“After that it’s a great opportunity to bring my experience and the knowledge I’ve acquired over the years to help with the club moving forward.
“It’s also an exciting opportunity to make a greater impact on rugby in Australia with a new club that still has so much to achieve.”
Genia's signing comes a week after the Rebels announced they had signed prop Tetera Faulkner to a two-year deal. It continues a strong off-season for the franchise after they also signed Japanese international Amanaki Mafi.
