The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are pleased to confirm the signing of talented outside back Jake Averillo.
The 18-year old, who can play in the halves, fullback or in the centres was chased by a number of NRL clubs, but has committed to the Bulldogs for a further two seasons until the end of 2020.
Averillo was a member of the club's SG Ball side that was defeated by the Penrith Panthers in the final this year and scored eight tries and kicked 53 goals during the season.
Following the completion of the SG Ball competition, Jake was elevated to the club's Jersey Flegg side where he played three games before picking up an ankle injury in round 17 that has sidelined him since.
The injury put a stop to his chances of representing NSWCHS at the recent Australian Schoolboy carnival that saw NSWCCC defeat CHS 28-14 in the final.
"I am very confident Jake would have made the Australian schoolboys team if he was available and played at the carnival. He was in high demand, but it's a great credit to the club for the way they are preparing for the future and it's great that Jake can see the vision of the Bulldogs moving forward," said Recruitment Manager Warren McDonnell.
A product of the Moorebank Rams club, Averillo has been a member of the club's development and pathway programs, as well as spending two years with the Bulldogs Youth High Performance Program.
"The club has been impressed with Jake's attitude and commitment to transition out of our development programs. We have a system here that makes sure we continue to produce those kids consistently. We need to instil good coaching, skill processes and good attitude – all the areas that make a footballer. We have to make sure that we continue to do this to make sure the kids are ready for the next level," added Pathways performance manager Andy Patmore
In 2017 he was awarded a scholarship through the Bulldogs ambassadors club who award two scholarships each year to two up and coming talented rugby league players.
