WARRINGTON Wolves have swooped to sign former Canberra Raiders and Australian International three-quarter Joel Monaghan on a one year deal for the 2011 season following the shock decision by fellow Aussie Chris Hicks to announce his retirement.
Tony Smith commented by saying;“We are delighted to be signing Joel as players of his calibre do not become available too often and the timing of this opportunity along with Chris Hicks reconsidering his retirement has meant it has all fallen into place for the best interests of all concerned.
“Joel is a player we have considered signing in the past and its fair to say that the chance has come along sooner than expected, but we also feel that it is absolutely the right time to stand by and support Joel and his brother Michael, and this will certainly enhance our squad for the season ahead.”
Monaghan, the younger brother of Warrington’s hooker Michael, fled
Australia amid controversy after a photograph of him simulating a sex
act with a team mates dog appeared on the internet.
Commenting on Hicks Smith added; “I personally would really like to thank Chris for his services over the past three seasons, everybody here at the club has thoroughly enjoyed working with him.
Both on and off the field Chris has always acted like a true professional, he has left many happy memories and will do for years to come.”
Warrington Wolves would also like to thank Chris for his excellent work both on the field as a prolific try scorer and off it with the comittments he has made within the Warrington community itself.
“We wish him and his family the very best for the future and the Hicks family will always be welcome here at The Halliwell Jones Stadium any time.
Chris (pictured below celebrating his Wembley hat-trick) commented: “ I see this opportunity as a good time to reconsider my retirement since realising that this move for Joel could be on the cards, It’s helped make the descision that much easier knowing that there will be a sound replacement stepping into the club. Ive been friends with both Mick and Joel for a while and the chance for them to play together will be a great move for the club.
Also many thanks to the club for giving me three great years, epecially thanks go out to the fans and our friends at the club for always making us welcome and feel at home.
I have made lots of friends and take away nothing but fond memories, Warrington will always be close to my heart.”
