Manning Boosts Waratahs Front Row Stocks

The NSW Waratahs have secured the services of Northern Suburbs Captain Al Manning, the talented hooker signing a Rookie contract for the 2007 Super 14 season.

The 24 year old is a graduate of the Waratah Academy after earlier representing Australia at both under 19 & under 21 level.

“I’ve always wanted to play my Rugby with the Waratahs and I certainly had no hesitation in signing,” Manning said.

“A full time contract has been a long term goal of mine and now I’m looking forward to working with the team and coaching staff on a day to day basis.

“There are a couple of good hookers already with the team in Adam Freier and Tatafu Polota-Nau and I’m fully aware and prepared for the challenges that lay ahead.”

Waratahs head coach Ewen McKenzie says attitude and work ethic are two of Manning’s best qualities.

“We offered and Al said yes immediately,” McKenzie said. “He should be commended for his determination and willingness to take up a challenge.

“His decision to sign says a lot about his character – there are two Wallaby hookers in our squad but still he’s prepared to back himself in a professional environment, which I think is fantastic.”

Manning made his state debut against the Pacific Islanders two years ago and also toured with the Waratahs to Argentina in 2004 and Eastern Europe in 2005.

AL MANNING

Position: Hooker
Physical: 1.79m, 106kg
Born: 14.02.82
Club: Northern Suburbs
State Caps: 8
State Points: 10 [2t]
State Debut: 2004 v Pacific Islanders
Super 14 Caps: Uncapped

Captain of the Northern Suburbs club in the Sydney Club Rugby competition, Al Manning is a player who places a strong emphasis on the set piece. An Australian representative at both under 19 and under 21 level, Manning toured Argentina with the Waratahs at the end of 2004 and played all four matches on the tour of Eastern Europe in 2005.