Vaivai commits to Rovers until 2020

Hull Kingston Rovers centre Junior Vaivai has signed a new two-year contract extension to remain at KCOM Craven Park until the end of the 2020 season.

The popular USA international has rapidly become a fans’ favourite since joining Rovers earlier this season, going on to score seven tries in 11 appearances in all competitions, as well as making four assists in the Betfred Super League.

A powerful player with excellent footwork and good pace, Vaivai previously played in the NRL for both South Sydney and Penrith Panthers.

Vaivai told www.hullkr.co.uk: “We had the option for 2019 already and I wanted to concentrate on coming and playing my best footy. I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to do that and I’m grateful to everybody. The Hull KR fans have been very welcoming, no doubt about it, and I think I owed it to the club for giving me an opportunity to start with.

“My family are also happy here, my son’s crazy for Rovers. We were talking contracts a couple of months ago and he said ‘Dad, I’ve just gotten into Hull KR so you can’t leave!’ That played a big part in my decision because when my family is happy, I’m happy.

“I always knew in the back of my mind that I wanted to stay at Hull KR and I think my family are witnesses that I prefer to remain a one-club man rather than jump ships.

“I work by principle. If people look after me then I always return the favour and I think that the club have really looked after me and I’m grateful. They’ve thrown me a lifeline and I’ve taken it with both hands. This is another way of me thanking the club for that. It wasn’t a hard decision, I always knew I wanted to stay.”

To watch a full and exclusive interview with Junior, visit hullkr.co.uk/tv. TV membership starts from just £5 and individual videos are available to purchase On Demand for £1.99.

Hull KR’s ability to attract and retain players such as Junior is testament to the backing of the supporters in all aspects of the club’s off-field operations, such as the Hull KR Lottery.

Costing just £2 a week to play, Rovers Lottery is a vital income stream for the club and has been running for a number of years with a variety of prizes up for grabs and all proceeds invested into the first team squad, as well as projects such as youth development.

You can join the Lottery today by visiting hullkr.co.uk/joinlottery with all members set to be entered into the latest £2,500 draw this month.