Patrick Ah Van has joined the Bradford Bulls after New Zealand Warriors agreed to release him from the final year of his contract.
New Zealander cleared for Super League switch
Patrick Ah Van has joined the Bradford Bulls after New Zealand Warriors agreed to release him from the final year of his contract.
The 22-year-old utility back has played a total of 54 games for the Warriors, but has only featured once in the NRL this season.
As such, Warriors chief executive Wayne Scurrah said the club had agreed to his request for an early release.
"Patrick has been part of our NRL squad for several years now but hasn't been able to break into the top side on a regular basis this year," Scurrah stated.
"He had an opportunity to take up a contract with Bradford in the Super League and asked for a release.
"We appreciate the contribution he's made to the club both in the NRL and NYC and wish him all the best."
Ah Van becomes new Bradford coach Mick Potter's third signing for next season following the captures of Hull KR centre Chev Walker and Wigan winger Shaun Ainscough.
Bulls football manager Stuart Duffy said: "We are delighted to have to have been able to secure Patrick's signature.
"He comes highly recommended to us and his ability to play equally well at full-back, wing and centre will make him a valuable addition to our squad for next season."
New deal for Kopczak
Meanwhile, the club have handed prop Craig Kopczak a new three-year contract which ties him to the club until at least until the end of the 2013 season.
The 23-year-old Welsh international has made 77 appearances for the Bulls since making his debut in 2006 and, after appearing in all but one of the club's 29 matches this season, he is looking forward to working under Potter.
"I suppose it's been in the back of my mind whether Mick Potter wanted to keep me or let me go so I'm over the moon to get the contract," he explained.
