St. George Illawarra Dragons have confirmed the signing of Italian international Daniel Atkinson, a dynamic halfback, who has agreed to join the club on a multi-year deal. Atkinson, 24, has been a rising star in the NRL and European rugby leagues, with a reputation for his electric pace, sharp playmaking skills, and leadership on the field. His arrival is set to bolster the Dragons’ spine and bring an exciting new dimension to their attacking game.
Atkinson, who has already represented Italy at the international level, is widely regarded as one of the most talented young playmakers to emerge in recent years. His performances in Super League with the Italian club, as well as his standout displays for Italy in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, have put him on the radar of NRL clubs. The Dragons have moved swiftly to secure his signature, making him the club’s final signing for the 2024 season.
Atkinson’s rugby league journey began in the youth systems of Italy before he made a name for himself in the Super League. His form in the English competition quickly drew attention, with many scouts praising his vision, agility, and ability to control the tempo of a game. His leadership qualities also stood out, making him a key figure in Italy’s World Cup campaign, where he guided the Azzurri with maturity beyond his years.
Despite his success overseas, Atkinson has always harbored ambitions to test himself at the highest level of rugby league – the NRL. The Dragons’ coaching staff, led by head coach Shane Flanagan, were impressed by his potential and have long viewed him as the perfect fit to complement their existing playmaking stocks.
The addition of Atkinson comes at a critical time for the Dragons, who are looking to build on a strong foundation after a promising finish to the 2023 season. With established NRL stars like Ben Hunt and Jack Wighton already at the helm, Atkinson will provide an exciting option in the halves and add depth to the squad. His ability to play both as a halfback and a five-eighth makes him a versatile asset for the Dragons, who will now have a greater range of options when it comes to their game strategy.
Shane Flanagan, the Dragons’ head coach, was enthusiastic about the signing, highlighting Atkinson’s natural ability to read the game. “Daniel is a talented, creative player who can unlock defensive lines and create opportunities for our outside backs,” Flanagan said. “His composure under pressure and his leadership qualities are exactly what we need as we continue to build for the future.”
Atkinson’s experience on the international stage is also seen as a key asset for the Dragons. Playing for Italy in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, Atkinson showed that he could perform on the world stage, leading his side with determination and skill. His international exposure, coupled with his time in the Super League, means he is well-equipped to handle the pressure and pace of the NRL.
With Atkinson’s signing, St. George Illawarra fans can look forward to a thrilling 2024 season. His arrival adds a fresh energy to the club, giving them an edge in attack and ensuring that they have the depth needed to compete at the top level. The Dragons have long been known for their strong defensive structures, but with the addition of Atkinson, they now have the creative spark that can make them a more dangerous side in attack.
Atkinson will join the Dragons’ preseason training ahead of the 2024 season and is expected to make an immediate impact in their opening games. Fans are already excited to see how the young Italian star will fit into the team and help the Dragons push for a spot in the top half of the NRL ladder.
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