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Cowboy has star qualities

09 Feb, 2010 09:04 AM
EXCITING North Queensland Cowboys recruit Shannon Gallant was in town on Sunday afternoon, handing out Toyota shirts to local junior clubs.

Lee Pulman, from Bell and Moir Toyota put the concept together at his local dealership and the idea was well received by junior players, with most teams represented.

Local juniors got the chance to chat with Gallant, and took the opportunity to pose for a photo with the up-and-coming fullback.

Gallant made the transition to the Cowboys after seeking a release from the Wests Tigers on compassionate grounds.

"Wests put forward a pretty good offer for me for 2010, but I knew the best way to further my career and receive more opportunities was to move up north," he said.

"They just had so many guys who were capable of filling the fullback role at Wests, and there were a lot of young guys really stepping up."

The fullback believes it was a good time to make the switch with the Cowboys, and if they can keep their star players fit will be pushing for a finals spot.

"Hopefully a few key signings will help out the depth of the club, but it's always easier when guys like Thurston, Payne and Bowen are fit.

"But it's definitely an exciting time to be a part of the Cowboys."

The recent controversial signing of Willie Mason is also seen as a plus, and Gallant says if he comes in with the right attitude he will fit in comfortably.

"Willie will be welcomed with open arms, and everyone is looking forward to having the big fella in the side," he said.

"As long as he comes here with the right mind-set and puts in the hard yards he will fit in fine."

The 23-year-old said the players were consulted about the prospect of signing Mason at a training session, and unanimously voted about getting the much-maligned forward's signature.

'The coaching staff and the board came to all the players and asked what they thought about Willie playing up here, and not one player expressed their concern with signing him up," he said.

"Willie is a quality rugby player, and he brings a lot of positives to the club.

"I'm sure he will let his playing do the talking, and be a huge asset for us."

Gallant said he had no troubles making the move from his south-west Sydney suburb of Campbelltown to Townsville.

"All of the guys at the Cowboys are great, and they really look after you," he said.

"They put on a lot of social functions for players and partners so it doesn't take long to feel right at home."

"It's a lot different to Sydney, because it's a one-team town up here and everyone is just obsessed with the Cowboys up there."

Regular Cowboys fullback Matt Bowen will be sidelined until May with a knee injury, creating an opportunity for Gallant to put his best foot forward and secure a regular place in the side.

The Cowboys will take on Gallant's former club Wests Tigers on Friday night in Mackay.

"It will be interesting coming up against a few old mates, so it will be good to see what side they put on the field," he said.

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YOUNG GUNS: 'Starries' Rugby League juniors got the chance to meet North Queensland Cowboys star Shannon Gallant on Sunday afternoon at Bell and Moir Toyota. - Picture: BRAD THOMPSON/4318
YOUNG GUNS: 'Starries' Rugby League juniors got the chance to meet North Queensland Cowboys star Shannon Gallant on Sunday afternoon at Bell and Moir Toyota. - Picture: BRAD THOMPSON/4318
STAR-STRUCK: North Queensland Cowboys recruit Shannon Gallant with David Pulman, 16.  - Picture: BRAD THOMPSON/4318
STAR-STRUCK: North Queensland Cowboys recruit Shannon Gallant with David Pulman, 16. - Picture: BRAD THOMPSON/4318
LOCAL FANS: Mount Isa rugby league fans got the chance to meet North Queensland Cowboys player Shannon Gallant at Bell and Moir toyota on Sunday afternoon.
LOCAL FANS: Mount Isa rugby league fans got the chance to meet North Queensland Cowboys player Shannon Gallant at Bell and Moir toyota on Sunday afternoon.

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