GROUP NINE
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GROUP Nine convert Jason Lagaali has revealed the challenge of Tumbarumba's rebuild is behind his defection from Southern Inland Rugby Union next season.
Putting pen to paper with the Greens, Lagaali has severed ties with SIRU contenders Wagga City after being enticed by the mountain club's mission for Group Nine resurrection.
Lagaali said he was contemplating a switch to the rival code after the Boiled Lollies finished the SIRU season in August, but the offer from Greens was too exciting to pass up.
Speaking yesterday, the 26-year-old talent said he's excited by the opportunity and backs his football ability to translate to the 13-man game.
"When the season finished I thought about it a bit," he said yesterday.
"Just looking for a new challenge.
"I thought I just needed a challenge and a bit of a change and I guess I was interested to see how I'd go."
A robust player with damaging strength and speed, Lagaali is expected to be a huge asset to Greens as the club begins its off-season recruitment drive.
However, the loss Lagaali came as a shock to Boiled Lollies who will also be without Jason's brother Eddie, who has signed with Canberra Royals next season.
Jason was expected to form part of a "coaching team" headed by Michael Kanck next season.
With two brothers wrapped up elsewhere, third brother Gordon is yet to make a decision to stick with Boiled Lollies or move on, although not necessarily to Greens.
The three brothers were an integral part of Boiled Lollies SIRU success over the past two years.
"Eddie's off to Canberra to play with the Royals," Jason said.
"I'm not sure what Gordon's doing, he might come across but that's up to him."
With or without his brother, Lagaali is determined to give his best to Greens under new coach Aaron Sweeney, with a clear direction to climb the Group Nine ladder.
"That's a big reason I signed, I looked at the club and what they're trying to do," he said.
"They're very community based.
"I've spoken to the committee and I'm really attracted to what they're trying to achieve.
"There's a really strong focus on building up the juniors."