Horie joins the Rebels after a successful stint with Otago in this year’s ITM Cup

by Brendan Bradford –

The Melbourne Rebels have announced the signing of Japanese hooker Shota Horie for the 2013 Super Rugby season.

The lively 26-year old took the rugby world by storm in his standout debut season for Otago in this year’s ITM Cup in New Zealand and will join the Rebels at the start of December.

A member of the Japanese side at the 2011 Rugby World Cup, Horie has the potential of becoming the first Japanese player to ever play Super Rugby in the competition’s 17-year history.

“I am honoured to become a part of the Melbourne Rebels. I would like to contribute to the team’s success as much as I can and also to prove the potential of Japanese players in Super rugby.” said Horie.

Rebels Head Coach Damien Hill, having spent three years coaching in Japan, understands the significance of this signing and applauds the stance taken by Shota in representing Japanese players in Super Rugby.

“The work ethic of all Japanese players is of the highest order, to have him as part of this club will have an immediate impact,” said Hill.
 
“Culture and values are a strong part of Japan, as they are here at the Rebels, and we are thrilled to have Shota on board.
 
“He comes with a point to prove, as do most of our players we bring from afar. That drive will be infectious, and will bring the best out of all the hookers at the club.
 
“We currently have an environment where there is competition in all spots, which is exactly what we want at the club. The hooking spot is certainly one position that is open at present.”

One of three hookers in the Rebels squad, Horie will join halfback and Otago teammate Fumiaka Tanaka, who was signed by the Highlanders, as the first two Japanese players in Super Rugby, a move that will create plenty of momentum and enthusiasm for the game in the Land of the Rising Sun.