Horwitz makes Rebels switch

Melbourne - The Melbourne Rebels squad for the 2018 Super Rugby season has received a boost with the signature of Waratahs back David Horwitz. 

After breaking the Rebels hearts with a game-winning try in the dying seconds at AAMI Park earlier this season, the 22-year-old centre has put pen to paper on a one-year contract to join the Victorians for next season. 

“David’s signature is a coup for the Melbourne Rebels and clear indication that this club is building a competitive squad to challenge for the Australian Conference and Super Rugby finals,” Melbourne Rebels CEO Baden Stephenson said. 

“We’ve been impressed by David’s development over the last two years as a strong ball carrier, effective communicator and ball player at first or second receiver through the NRC with NSW Country Eagles and at Super Rugby level with the Waratahs. 

“David will complement our backline nicely which will boast 3 current Wallaby squad members and 5 current Australian U20’s representatives in 2018. David will add versatility, strong competition and experience so we’re pleased that he will continue his promising career with the Rebels and contribute to the club.” 

The former Australian Schoolboy (2011/12) and Australian U20s (2014) representative has spent the last four seasons with the Waratahs after he was initially invited the join the club as an 18-year-old. 

Horwitz made an immediate impact with a try on his Super Rugby debut against the Reds in the opening round of the 2016 season before going on to accumulate 26 Super Rugby appearances in 2016 and 2017. 

Horwitz has appeared in 13 of 14 games so far this season for the Waratahs, including the last ten at inside centre. 

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to join the Rebels, a team I believe is on the rise with huge potential,” Horwitz said. 

“In addition to an already strong core group of staff and players, proactive recruitment for 2018 holds the club in good stead to be a prominent threat in the Australian Conference for years to come. 

“I’m excited to train at new and very professional facilities and play in a world-class stadium at AAMI Park in the middle of Australia’s sporting capital.”

The latest recruitment follows the re-signing from skipper Nic Stirzaker, Wallaby James Hanson, lock Steven Cummins and prop Fereti Sa’aga last week.