The Waratahs have confirmed the signing of Brumbies lock Tom Staniforth, on a three-year deal.
Staniforth, a former Australia U20s vice-captain, started his Super Rugby career in Canberra, but the Brumbies indicated last month that he would be moving on.
With the Waratahs set to farewell Dean Mumm and Will Skelton in their lock department at the end of the season, Staniforth will fill a forthcoming gap in the side.
Waratahs coach Daryl Gibson said Staniforth’s mentality had caught his eye.
“Tom is a young hard-working player who hasn’t had too many opportunities in Canberra but he impressed me with his no-nonsense attitude and I’m really looking forward to working with him, to help him succeed in Super Rugby,” he said.
“He’ll have the chance to work his way into the match day squad and his attitude will count for a lot and I think he’ll do well here, learning in a new environment.”
Canberra native Staniforth will move out of home for the first time to join the Waratahs next season, but said he was looking forward to embracing the challenge.
“As well as joining a new team, it will be the first time I’ve lived outside Canberra so there will be a few, new off-field challenges for me as well,” Staniforth said.
“But I love the way the Waratahs play, their open, attacking style suits me and it’s the type of game I can get really involved in.
“It’s a young squad with young players all looking to improve and play well together, so I’m really excited to be joining a new team and playing in Sydney.
“It will be tough to leave the Brumbies who I’ve been with since I left school, but joining the Waratahs is the best decision for me in the long term and I’m excited about the whole change.”
