Cootamundra Bulldogs sign former Leeds Rhino fullback Tom Bush

It’s no surprise then the Bulldogs are buzzing with the signing of former Leeds Rhinos player Tom Bush.

Bush had his first training session on Tuesday and co-coach Luke Berkrey said the side were “very excited” to welcome him.

“[Co-coach Aaron] Byrne played with him last year at Young and had massive raps on him,” Berkrey said.

“I remember him being very, very quick when we played them, and anyone of that quality in the group is going to be good for us.”

Aside from speed, which Berkrey believes the Bulldogs have traditionally lacked, he says Bush will bring leadership and top-level experience to the side.

Bush grew up in Leeds and earned his first start for his boyhood club when he was still working for his dad as a part-time plumber.

He went on to play three season for the Rhinos during the era that saw them win four premierships in five years.

“Being around those types of people helped me and gave me a lot of experience, and I’m very thankful for that," Bush said.

“Obviously it was a disappointment when they let me go but what I’ve done since has been because of the experience I got there.”

Bush’s ambition to play rugby league in Australia brought him to Young last year, where he played for the Cherrypickers with Bulldogs coach Aaron Byrne.

He says ‘Byrnesy’ was one of the main reasons he decided to join the Bulldogs this season.

“I always respected him as a player and I saw he could be a really good coach,” Bush said.

“When he decided to come back here I just felt like it was the right move.”

Bush is also relishing the opportunity to impress in his preferred position of fullback, rather than five-eighth where he played last year.