Tipping the scales at around 150kgs, Saul Houma will certainly make his presence felt in the middle for the Wagga club this season.

He gives plenty of size to what has been a small Kangaroos pack in the past and brings plenty of experience as well.

The 28-year-old has played in feeder systems for the New Zealand Warriors, Roosters and Sharks and is looking to make an impact in his second season of country football.

"I know the club has a proud history and a good bunch of young blokes coming through the system," Houma said.

"Any young blokes looking to give the city a big crack I was hoping to pass down some of my knowledge.

"In my career I've made a lot of mistakes so hopefully I can pass down some of that knowledge."

Houma was named the 2010 New Zealand domestic player of the year before signing with the Warriors and then heading to Sydney.

He admits off-field dramas didn't help his cause in the city, plus his ballooning weight means he now carries much more then what he did when he was at his peak for the Jets.

However it didn't stop him from making a big impact for Orange Hawks last season.

Houma garnered plenty of praise from Orange Hawks coach Willie Heta leading into the season before the move to Group Nine.

Heta told the Central Western Daily he would be their breakout player this year after dropping a lot of weight in the pre-season before deciding to join cousin Sione Nuilia at Kangaroos.

However he's still got plenty to throw around in the middle.

"It's a lot of taro and corn beef," Houma said.

Kangaroos hopes the Hawks' loss will be their gain.

Coach Glenn Dumbrell is looking forward to seeing what he can do.

"I don't think Wagga Kangaroos have had a big front rower in a long time," Dumbrell said.

"Probably since Squasher (Grant Wooden) and that is going back a fair few years.

"I think it's very exciting that's for sure."

Dumbrell expects Houma will be a real intimidating force up the middle.

Kangaroos are hoping he can help combat the large Young pack as they kick off the Group Nine season at a revamped Equex Centre on Saturday.

"It's very hard to come across a big, mobile front rower," Dumbrell said.

"He's definitely got a few accolades, played a lot of years with Newtown in the Roosters system so he should be good for us."

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