Here is where I stand on the Awen Guttenbeil issue: I would like the Warriors to offer Awen a contract, and I would like Awen to turn it down.
Why?
I would be concerned if the Warriors didn't approach Guttenbeil, considering his situation and the fact that he has given so much to the club over the years, and in particular this year. If our management weren't sourcing out potential signings and approaching them, it would be very dire indeed.
At the same time, I don't think it would be in Awen's best interests to return to the club. He won't be eligible for the veteran rule as Koopu already has it. He is at the twilight of his career, and the best thing he can do to set up his family for the future is to cash in on as much money over his last two or three seasons, and that can only be done in the ESL.
Why?
I would be concerned if the Warriors didn't approach Guttenbeil, considering his situation and the fact that he has given so much to the club over the years, and in particular this year. If our management weren't sourcing out potential signings and approaching them, it would be very dire indeed.
At the same time, I don't think it would be in Awen's best interests to return to the club. He won't be eligible for the veteran rule as Koopu already has it. He is at the twilight of his career, and the best thing he can do to set up his family for the future is to cash in on as much money over his last two or three seasons, and that can only be done in the ESL.
Jesbass said:
I agree he defenitly deserve's a year contract out of respect to his long service, i also agree on your opinion that he should reject it.
From www.nzherald.co.nz:
Awen Guttenbeil is still expected to play in next year's UK Super League, despite Castleford's relegation. Guttenbeil's contract with Castleford became null and void after a loss to fellow strugglers Wakefield last weekend condemned Castleford to the drop but the 30-year-old second rower is chasing another Super League contract.
"We are pretty confident he can pick something up over there [in the UK]," said his agent, Frank Endacott. "We already had some plans in place in case Castleford were relegated."
Guttenbeil could be a replacement for Wakefield's Monty Betham, who's understood to be returning to New Zealand to pursue a boxing career. There may also be opportunities with the team promoted to Super League, most likely Widnes or Hull KR.
There had been suggestions Guttenbeil might be offered a new deal to fill the Warriors' vacancy created by Sione Faumuina's sacking. But it's understood the Warriors are close to signing a local player to complete their squad.
Guttenbeil also said he had his sights set on further afield. "It would be strange to be here [at the Warriors] next year because I'd said my farewells," Guttenbeil admitted. "Myself and my family have prepared ourselves to go to the UK so if we still can, that would be great. But we are looking at all the options in the NRL and Super League."
Awen Guttenbeil is still expected to play in next year's UK Super League, despite Castleford's relegation. Guttenbeil's contract with Castleford became null and void after a loss to fellow strugglers Wakefield last weekend condemned Castleford to the drop but the 30-year-old second rower is chasing another Super League contract.
"We are pretty confident he can pick something up over there [in the UK]," said his agent, Frank Endacott. "We already had some plans in place in case Castleford were relegated."
Guttenbeil could be a replacement for Wakefield's Monty Betham, who's understood to be returning to New Zealand to pursue a boxing career. There may also be opportunities with the team promoted to Super League, most likely Widnes or Hull KR.
There had been suggestions Guttenbeil might be offered a new deal to fill the Warriors' vacancy created by Sione Faumuina's sacking. But it's understood the Warriors are close to signing a local player to complete their squad.
Guttenbeil also said he had his sights set on further afield. "It would be strange to be here [at the Warriors] next year because I'd said my farewells," Guttenbeil admitted. "Myself and my family have prepared ourselves to go to the UK so if we still can, that would be great. But we are looking at all the options in the NRL and Super League."
Certainly wish Awen and the family all the best in getting what they are looking for over in the UK!
And what's this about Monty wanting to persue a boxing career...hmmm..that could be a good spectacle! hehe
And what's this about Monty wanting to persue a boxing career...hmmm..that could be a good spectacle! hehe
Good news, so we might not have to see Awen play against the Warriors yet. As for Montys boxing carrer, no doubte he's got potential but he's left it a bit late hasn't he? How old is Monty? Early 30's?
Jesbass said:
Do you reckon Monty can still give the boxing world a good shake at 28? I'd love to see him fight Hoppa, even in a charity match.
sebastian said:
I don't know. He wasn't voted the most feared player in the NRL for nothing. I'd love to see that fight, too. Hoppa is a brilliant boxer.
https://nzwarriors.com/viewtopic.php?t=9761
Yeah read that yesterday..why the feck would you wanna be managed by him?????????????Jesbass said:
:evil: I get really, really bad vibes when ever Mick's name gets mentioned...haha. I don't think 28 is late. Some people do well at a later age.
dam i was hoping to meet awen next yr, go to a tigers game n wait behind the sheds. i never met him n gess i never will :cry: but best of luk to him in the ESL anyway 
What happened about him going 2 west tigers, Was it just random rumour? I was hoping would play him. it would of been awesome!
Jesbass said:
I've always been a fan of young blood, especially home grown, so it will be interesting to hear other peoples opinions when the player is announced.
