It seems to be a trend of late, with yet another New Zealand Warriors player to join the Penrith Panthers – this time Elijah Taylor, who will be joining the club from the 2014 season on a 3-year deal.
One of a string of players signed by former Warriors coach Ivan Cleary from his former club, Taylor said that whilst it was not an easy decision to leave New Zealand, he believes it will further his career by moving.
The decision to leave NZ has not been easy of course, but Gus Gould, Phil Moss and the group at the Panthers, together of course with my old coach Ivan Cleary, have gone to huge lengths to create a place for me as a Marquee player,” said Taylor.
“This opportunity perfectly fits my talents on and off the field, around training and the club, plus in the fan, media and commercial worlds which I know will help define my career.
And I’ll be a key part of extraordinary developments the Panthers have underway, which you’ll be hearing about.”
Despite fans concerns that he may not apply the required effort, Taylor says he has every intent of playing his best for the Warriors in his final year at the club.
“It’s an exciting venture for me. But don’t worry, I’ll always be a Kiwi. Right now I’m focused on 2013 with The Warriors and of course the Kiwis, with the World Cup at the end of the year,” said Taylor.\
The Panthers are also excited to have signed Taylor, who adds to their huge back-row depth, with Phil Gould, the club’s Executive General Manager of Football, praising the signing.
“Elijah Taylor is a marquee signing for the Panthers. He has been specifically targeted by the Panthers, not only for his elite footballing talent, but also based on his tremendous character and leadership qualities which will assist Panthers in our broader Community objectives,” said Gould.
“Elijah is a highly motivated individual with a passion for using the profile he develops through professional sport to make a difference in other people’s lives.
Elijah is a wonderful acquisition for our club and our community”.