YORK RUFC have beaten a number of other clubs to the signature of Australian centre Damon Smith.

Smith, currently playing cricket for Easingwold in the York Senior League, signed for York this week.

Smith, 24, represented New South Wales at schoolboy level and has played first grade rugby for both West Harbour and Eastwood - Grade One New South Wales clubs.

After his first training session Smith said: "The approach to coaching and the welcome that I got from both the players and the committee was what convinced me that York was the club for me. Once the cricket season is over I am looking forward to helping York gain promotion."

Updated: 09:45 Saturday, August 18, 2001