A few months after the Norths dented Sam Elliott’s hopes of a first Hostplus Cup premiership, the former Redcliffe forward is on deck with the Devils and ready for the 2023 season.
Elliott, 25, featured in a Redcliffe pack that waged a memorable battle in the grand final four months ago before the Devils secured their second consecutive premiership.
Soon after, Elliott had a long conversation with new Devils coach Dave Elliott – no relation – and decided that he would bring his skills to Bishop Park.
His Dolphins grand final teammate Bryce Donovan also moved to Norths, reigniting his Devils career after a season with Redcliffe.
“I’m really enjoying it so far and everyone seems so welcoming which is what people have told me about this club,” Elliott said.
“I had a very good chat to Dave after the grand final and decided I would come to Norths.
“I really enjoyed being at Redcliffe. We went into that grand final feeling as though we could win.
“It wasn’t the most physical game that we had played but Norths showed their skills that day and their halves were very good.”
Elliott adds to the Devils’ backrow stocks after changes since the grand final. Forward leader Michael Sio has returned to his native New Zealand while veteran Leivaha Pulu has transferred to Brisbane Tigers.
Elliott brings considerable experience to the Devils after emerging through the Gold Coast Titans and Brisbane Broncos’ systems in the same age group as the likes of Pat Carrigan and Payne Haas. He featured in the Broncos Under 20 team in the final National Youth Competition in 2017 before a Cup career that has included stops at Souths Logan, Easts and Wynnum Manly.
Elliott considered a break after the 2021 season only to be convinced to play with Redcliffe.
“I actually went to a training session at Norths early last season when I still hadn’t made up my mind about playing in 2022,” he said.
“I think everyone playing Cup has ambitions to play NRL so that’s something that’s still in my mind.”
Elliott’s brother Max is an experienced Cup forward.
The pair grew up in Lismore, the sons of a builder, and dabbled in various sports before concentrating on rugby league with Marist Brothers Rams.
Sam Elliott is now a Devils local.
He and wife Emily, married early last year, live in the local area and Elliott teaches at renowned Devils nursery Wavell High.
“There’s a good feel in the club and we’re all looking forward to the year ahead,” Elliott said.
