‘We’re going to put Cas back on the map’ says new recruit Blake Taaffe

Australian Taaffe is one of the Tigers’ key signings as they look to make more of an impact than in recent years under new head coach Ryan Carr.

He is having to get used to a very different environment in England than he has known down under with plenty of cold mornings already, but is relishing the challenge ahead and enjoying his experience so far.

"I'd always wanted to come over here and give it a crack but I never planned to come this early,” he said.

"I'm glad I did it. I'm really enjoying my time here and like where I'm heading.

"I was coming to the back end of my contract and there was a lot of interest. At the time, my preference was to stay in the NRL, but Chezzy changed my mind after telling me about Ryan Carr and the signings the club had made.

"I wanted a place where I could belong. Chezzy said he loves how I play and really backed me. He said I'd thrive over here.

"The big thing for me was coming to a club that had faith in me. I want to repay them.

"I'm just going to give my absolute best and take the rest of the squad with me. I believe if I do what I do best while I'm over here, I can help put Cas back on the map. That's all I want.

"I can't really say too much on the past because I wasn't here but the way the squad has come together and gelled, I really feel there's something special building here.

"I've heard that when this club is going well, the community thrives too. We're definitely going to put Cas back on the map."

Taaffe has been impressed with the way coach Carr works with his players.

He added: "I just love how hands-on he is. He loves getting in drills and showing us what he wants from us. He just keeps everyone accountable.

"You can't ask for any more than a coach who is straight up with you and tells you exactly how it is. If you get told you're doing something wrong and then walk away and fix it, it brings you closer together."