Hopoate to join Eels
10/03/2011 09:10:02 PM
Manly premiership player Will Hopoate is set to join Parramatta following his two-year Mormon mission, according to newspaper reports.
News Limited reports Hopoate will join the Eels on a two-year deal, which will begin when he finishes a Queensland-based religious mission in 2014.
Hopoate's signature caps a remarkable recruitment drive for the Eels, whose 2014 roster will also include, Chris Sandow and Jarryd Hayne.
The gifted representative winger, who sent up a memorable try for Glenn Stewart in Manly's grand final victory, was one of the Sea Eagles best in Sunday's decider.
The switch is a blow for the Sea Eagles, who said they were desperate to retain the 19-year-old.
As late as Sunday night, Hopoate pledged his loyalty to the premiers.
"It's the club I love, the club I grew up supporting. I'd love to be in maroon and white. But I just want to soak up what it (the premiership) is now and enjoy the week with the boys," he said.
More to follow