Wests Tigers
In February 2008, Ellis agreed to a contract with Australian National Rugby League club, Wests Tigers, for a three-year deal commencing in 2009.
Great Britain forward Gareth Ellis cited a lifestyle change and the desire to test himself on the biggest stage for his reasons to quit Super League champions Leeds Rhinos at the end of the new season. Wests Tigers coach Tim Sheens praised new signing Gareth Ellis on making a decision based purely on a challenge rather than money.
"Gareth Ellis has no body fat, he has an 'eight pack', will run for 200m and leave six players being taken off on stretchers. He has to be the best forward I've ever played with."
-Liam Fulton
He joined the list of British players who have played for the Wests Tigers joint venture through Balmain Tigers and Western Suburbs Magpies - Andy Currier, Ellery Hanley, Lee Crooks, Garry Schofield and Harvey Howard. He scored his first try in the NRL off a toe poke from Robbie Farah. Gareth Ellis became the first Great Britain forward to switch to the NRL since former Sydney Roosters hitman Adrian Morley spent six successful seasons in Australia.
During his second season with the Wests Tigers, Ellis signed an extension until the end of 2013. Coach Tim Sheens said, "In my time here, dollar-for-dollar, he's been the best buy this club has had."
Reduced to 18 appearances in 2011, Ellis made a trip to England mid-season, suffering from an ankle injury and home-sickness. However, he played well enough to be named the Wests Tigers Player of the Year for the third consecutive year.
It was announced on 28 February 2012 that Ellis was looking to return to Super League in 2013 which has sparked a flurry of interest from Super League clubs to sign the player. On 21 March 2012 it was announced he would be joining Super League club Hull F.C.
Read more about this topic: Gareth Ellis
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—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)