The Wests Tigers have signed a powerhouse Fijian prop who made his Test debut in the recent Pacific Championships.
Gordon Whippy, 21, is expected to start on a development contract but could move up to NRL level after his impressive performance when given his chance at the elite level by Fiji.
Whippy is a superb natural athlete, having represented Fiji in both swimming and athletics before deciding to concentrate his efforts in rugby league.
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He began with the Raiders as a raw teenager three years ago and then had stints with Souths juniors and most recently with Ipswich Jets in the Hostplus Cup.
“Gordon has done a great job and this is a big opportunity for him,” his manager, former NSW and Kangaroos star Matt Adamson told Wide World of Sports.
“He is big and strong and still has a lot to learn but he is very keen and the Tigers should be a good for for him.”
Tigers coach Benji Marshall has shown he is prepared to give youth a go and is certain to closely monitor Whippy’s form on the training paddock and in the pre-season trials.