New signing Matiu Welch is looking forward to starting a new challenge at Hull RUFC. Signed from Bridlington, Welch wants to play his part in getting the club back to National 1. The versatile back who can play a number of different positions including fly-half and scrum-half, is looking forward to working with director of rugby Mike Umaga.
“Knowing the vibe around the club and how everyone can be, I want to help us push back up to National 1 and go from there,” Welch said.
“That’s the standard for the club and the standard for the team also.
”Coming from Bridlington, which is a couple of grades lower, it’s going to be a challenge, but throughout your career you always want to better yourself.
“I was playing 7s at Pocklington and I got talking to Tony Penn and asked me if I fancied playing for Hull RUFC.
“I said yeah, but he thought after a few beers I wasn’t serious, but I got in touch with Mike and it came about from there.”
Welch got to know his new team-mates a lot better after the first training session of pre-season last Saturday. It was a chance for players and their friends and family to get together ahead of what is hopefully a successful season.
”I enjoyed the first session, which was all about fitness,” Welch said.
“No one likes the pre-season stuff, but it’s there.
“We have to come together as a unit right from the start. I got a good positive vibe from it and I enjoyed it.
“I’ll bring a bit of versatility in the backs, which I’ve been for the last eight seasons or so over here in England.
“Mike asked if I can play this position and that position and he said he’d see what he can make out of me.
“I’m looking forward to working with someone who has a higher coaching level than what I’ve been used to.”
HULL RUGBY UNION FOOTBALL CLUB 