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NICK O’Meley is the latest son-of-a-gun to sign to be signed by the Roosters with the son of former NSW wrecking ball Mark to join the likes of Mitchell Pearce and Jackson Hastings at Bondi.
The Sunday Telegraph can reveal, O’Meley, 17, has been snared by the Roosters and will follow in the footsteps of his famous father Mark, who also played for the tri-colours.
The Roosters beat of several suitors to sign the Wyong Roos player of the year following an impressive season which saw O’Meley Jr play first grade on the Central Coast while contracted to the Newcastle Knights.
While his father was a ferocious front row forward — regarded among the toughest players of his generation — Nick is fleet footed outside back.
“He is a lot different to me,’’ Mark said.
“But while I never played in the backs, I think he has the same type of attitude and dedication that helped make me a career in rugby league.’’
Mark was first reluctant to endorse a move that would see his son player for one of his three former NRL clubs.
Nick was also sounded out by the Bulldogs before coming to terms with the Roosters.
“They are an extremely professional organisation,’’ O’Meley said.
“And they have created pathways for kids like Nick on the Central Coast with the programs that have set up. I know he is in good hands and will get an opportunity if he earns it.’’
Nick played his first senior football in the UK after he was signed by the Hull FC football academy while Mark continued his career in the English Super League.
The centre — also at home playing fullback or wing — spent two years with the Knights before the Roosters deal.
“It is a great opportunity,’’ Nick said.
“I have had a good couple of years since coming back to Australia and I am looking forward to developing with the Roosters. They are a big club and I spent plenty of time around them watching Dad play for the Roosters.
“I am now looking forward to working hard and I know they will give me every opportunity to become a good football player.’’
O’Meley and son joined forces on the Central Coast this year to play in the same team in dream come true for both.
“Yeah I came out of retirement when the chance came up to play with Nick,’’ Mark said.
“Not many Dad’s get the chance to play with their son — so I took the opportunity with both hands. We actually both scored a try in the same game.’’
O’Meley is expected to play SG Ball with the Roosters before being elevated to the NSW Cup.
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