New Melbourne Rebels signing Bryce Hegarty ready to take his chance

Bryce Hegarty: Will cross codes to play for the Melbourne Rebels

Cross-code convert Bryce Hegarty is relishing the chance to learn his craft alongside the likes of James O'Connor and Kurtley Beale at the Melbourne Rebels.

Hegarty has been named in the extended playing squad at the Melbourne franchise having previously played league for Brisbane Broncos.

And the 20-year-old, who is being groomed to play at fly-half or full-back, can't wait to make his mark.

"Obviously in those guys (Beale and O'Connor), I have the opportunity to learn from arguably the best in the game at the moment," Hegarty told the club's official site.

"I am a very lucky guy to have that opportunity and I plan on soaking up what I can from them and the other senior guys.

"It was a tough decision, and I spoke to a couple of NRL clubs (about 2013), but the Rebels just seemed like the best move at this stage of my career.

"I have always been interested in rugby union as a career, and (Rebels recruiting manager) Sam Cordingley managed to convince me to make the move here. Now I just want to take this opportunity with both hands."