Tuesday 26 August 2014 14:59, UK
Relegated Bradford have announced the signing of 20-year-old hooker Vila Halafihi on a 12-month deal.
The Hull-born former Leeds academy player,who is the son of former Hull KR, Sheffield and London forward Nick Halafihi, has spent the last 12 months in Sydney playing for Penrith Panthers' Under-20s side.
"Coming home is a big step forward for my career after a really exciting and challenging year with the Panthers," he said.
"I am a massive Bradford Bulls fan so feel absolutely privileged to have signed for such a great club.
"Bradford was the first team I ever supported and I want to play a part in helping return the club to its former glory.
Bradford was the first team I ever supported and I want to play a part in helping return the club to its former glory.
"From the minute the club approached me, I have been getting excited about the prospect of working with James Lowes again.
"He was with the Rhinos when I was there and to have someone who has won such a long list of trophies while playing my position will be fantastic for me going forward."
Halafihi, who is due to arrive in the UK in October, becomes the 14th member of Lowes' squad for their Championship campaign in 2015.
"We have some very talented hookers already on board and I expect Vila to only add to what they bring to the team," Lowes said.
"Vila comes with an impressive pedigree and I believe has the ability to go far.
"I fully expect him to be pushing his peers all the way for a spot in the first 17 next season, while adding a level of depth."
