Rodd Penney rejoins Saracens

Centre Rodd Penney has rejoined Saracens from Italian club Aironi.

Penney moved to Italy earlier this season, but the centre has now returned to the North London club and is available for selection for Saturday’s LV=Cup clash against Llanelli Scarlets.

Penney, who has 93 Saracens appearances, said: “My time at Aironi was memorable and one which my wife and I will forever cherish. Being part of a passionate Aironi culture with such loyal supporters was a unique experience. I take with me some great friendships from Aironi. I appreciate Aironi’s support in my decision to return to Saracens.”

Penney’s return has been welcome by Director of Rugby Mark McCall. He said: “We’re delighted to have Rodd back with us. He knows our systems inside out and has quickly settled back into the team.”

Rodd Penney makes Italian move

Rodd Penney will move from Saracens to Italian club Airioni with immediate effect.

RoddPenney The New-Zealand born centre said: “It’s a fantastic chance for me to play in a different country and experience a new environment. I have enjoyed four amazing seasons at Saracens and felt part of something special. I am now grateful to the club for letting me pursue this new and challenging opportunity in Italy.”

Brendan Venter, Director of Rugby, said: “Rodd has been a fantastic player for us. He has never been less than committed and has never, ever let the club down. We wish him well in Italy, and will obviously keep in touch.”

2009 Steinlager Rugby Award nominees announced

The nominees for this year’s Steinlager Rugby Awards, New Zealand’s premier rugby awards, have been announced.

The Steinlager Rugby Awards recognise and acknowledge the achievements of New Zealand’s teams, coaches, players, referees and volunteers in 2009. The ceremony will be held at the SkyCity Convention Centre, Auckland, on Thursday 17 December and broadcast live on SKY Sport and The Rugby Channel.

A new name is being introduced for the award which annually recognises the great contribution volunteers make to community rugby. The winner of this year’s volunteer award will be honoured with the Charles Monro Rugby Volunteer of the Year trophy, named after the man who introduced rugby to New Zealand. Nominees are Otago’s Blair Crawford, Auckland’s David Hickey and Peter Te Tai from Southland.

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