The Huawei Canberra Raiders are delighted to confirm the signing of Junior Kangaroos forward Stefano Hala from the Penrith Panthers.

The 19 year old joins the Raiders for two seasons from 2018 and plays primarily as a second-rower.

Canberra Raiders recruitment and high performance manager Peter Mulholland was delighted with the acquisition of Hala.

“Stefano has played representative football all the way through his career and was a member of the pre-season squad at Penrith this year,” Mulholland said.

“We see him as a valuable acquisition of our pathway program with our other young front-rowers at the club.”

A St Mary’s junior, Stefano was delighted to sign with the green machine.

“It’s great to be here in Canberra and I’m delighted to join the club,” Stefano said.

“I played Junior Kangaroos and NSW U20’s with Jack Murchie and Emre Guler so there’s a few familiar faces here.”

“I’m excited for the challenge that lies ahead and I can’t wait to start training.”