Better late than never as the New Zealand Warriors kickstart their NRLW signing campaign with the recruitment of former Warrior Apii Nicholls.
The now veteran fullback will head back across the Tasman, and don the Warriors colours for the first time in five years.
Currently at the Canberra Raiders, Nicholls, an accomplished Kiwi Ferns player, makes the move back after playing in the Warriors six games across the 2018 and 2019 seasons.
The New Zealand Warriors will also have a new coach in 2025 with Ron Griffiths to return home and take the helm and he knows Nicholls is a Warrior through and through.
“Apii was a crucial signing for us as she embodies the character of person we want at the Warriors,” said Griffiths.
“She’s a Warrior and when we met with her we made it clear that we wanted to bring her home.”
Griffiths opened up on the type of players he wants for his side next season and Nicholls had those attributes.
“We have been calculated in the players we have targeted, people with the right character,” continued Griffiths.
“It’s important that all have an understanding that there is a natural order of club, team and individual. Furthermore we will be invested in the community and immerse ourselves in and respect all cultural aspects of New Zealand.”
With 26 NRLW games to her name, Nicholls knew it was the time to come home and return to her roots.
“The decision to come home ultimately came down to both footy and family and the support we have back home on and off the field,” said Nicholls.
“My chats with Ron were really positive too and I’m so excited to learn and develop my game under someone who has such a great reputation.
“The Raiders really welcomed me here and I’m forever grateful for this opportunity but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t always want to get home, eventually.
“To pull that (Warriors) jersey on again, it’s going to be special.”
