The banning of players over age 19 in the Academy System affected his progress more than anything. Harsh reality.

Very true. What are the rules this year regarding the U19/Academy system? Have they changed at all?

Hopkins could be a real surprise package for us this year. I think he's flying under the radar a little at the moment with most chat about new signings surrounding guys like Bowen, Pettybourne and Bateman but that could really help him. If he has a big pre season he's got every chance of smashing his way in to the side for the WCC which would be massive for him.

Going off the reports on your board I'm really looking forward to watching him play.

To be honest I've heard more people talking about Hopkins than any of our other signings bar Bowen. I hope he lives up to it! Really looking forward to pre season in a couple of weeks when we get to see all these guys who are all unknown quantities as all either haven't played SL before or haven't played for a top club before. It'll be interesting to see where everyone plays as well. Wonder if we might see some back rowers converted into props if Powell and/or Lauaki leave