Aaron Pene has officially joined the Leigh Leopards on a two-and-a-half-year deal after he was granted an early release by the Melbourne Storm.
Pene said that although it was not easy leaving a place like Melbourne, one he calls his home, he knows it is the right move and he thanked the club for what they have done for him.
“I’ve loved every minute of my time at this club. Every person at some point through my time here has had a positive impact on my football career and in my life outside,” Pene said.
“It’s never easy leaving a place you love and call home.
“I remember when I first arrived and the Club saying that you need to be good people before being good footballers. That’s what makes this club so special.”
Leopards head coach Adrian Lam says Pene is the sort of player that fits his style of play perfectly and he looks forward to working with him.
“Aaron Pene is a real Adrian Lam style of Rugby League player,” Lam said.
“He’s someone we’ve been working to bring in for a while and I’m looking forward to working with him.”