Sydney Roosters five-eighth James Maloney today informed the Club and players that he has signed with the Cronulla Sharks from 2016.
“While we are very disappointed to have not been able to retain James, we respect his decision to do what is in the best interests of both himself and his young family,” said Roosters Chief Operating Officer Football, Brian Canavan.
“Since joining us in 2013, James has certainly been a wonderful character and keen contributor as a senior member of our squad both on and off the field, and I’m sure he will continue to be for the remainder of the season,” he added.
Roosters Head Coach Trent Robinson echoed Canavan’s sentiments and thanked James for his contribution to the side.
“Not only is James a gifted footy player, he’s a great character and an even better man, and it’s been a pleasure to work with him over the last few seasons,” said Robinson.
“We’re not done yet though, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work closely with Jimmy for the rest of the year as we work towards a strong finish,” he added.
“This definitely hasn’t been an easy decision for me. The Roosters have been great to me and my family since I got here and I’ve made some lifelong mates at the Club,” said Maloney.
“While it’s sad to be leaving the Club and the boys, now that my future is sorted out, my main focus right now is doing the best job I can for the Roosters for the rest of this year,” he added.
29 year-old Maloney, who was a member of the Roosters Premiership-winning side in 2013, has played 65 NRL games with the Roosters to date, amassing a tally of 593 points so far since joining the Club.