A trio of young guns for the Melbourne Rebels

The Melbourne Rebels today announced the signing of three exciting young players in 19 year old JP Du Plessis from NRL team, Sydney Roosters, 21 year old Australian Sevens' back, Nicholas Phipps and 22 year old Hugh Pyle from the Brumbies Academy.

JP Du Plessis hails from South Africa where his performances on the rugby field caught the attention of national and international scouts resulting in recruitment by the Sydney Roosters. Looking for ways to develop his game, Du Plessis, considered a certainty for Springbok honours after his South African U18 appearance, chose to switch codes and move to Australia.

In commenting on his return to his first game, Du Plessis said,

"I miss rugby union, I've played it all my life and looking forward to playing it again. I've really enjoyed my experience with rugby league, but can't wait to play Super Rugby with the Melbourne Rebels."

Du Plessis's decision to move from South Africa has turned out well for the Rebels and assistant coach, Damien Hill is delighted with the addition.

"Just 19 years of age, JP has excellent foot work and acceleration. He's a balanced runner who plays inside and outside centre and wing."

Hugh Pyle comes to the Rebels from the Brumbies Academy where training and playing alongside ex-Wallabies like Justin Harrison and Julian Huxley, a fellow Rebel recruit has primed him for the exciting opportunity ahead in Melbourne.

Assistant coach, Mark Bakewell has great hopes for the young forward.

"Hugh comes to the Rebels as a player with enormous potential. He has all the physical and technical attributes to evolve as a star of the tight five in the Melbourne Rebels franchise and Australian Rugby . We are very pleased he has Melbourne to develop his talents." he said.

Nick Phipps competed in the IRB Sevens World Series after a strong year in 2009 captaining Sydney University's Premiership-winning 1st Colts team.

The Uni youngster made his Sevens debut during the season opener in Dubai and made the most of his opportunity, scoring a try and kicking eight conversions.

"Nick is a great product of the recent success of the Australian Sevens program and has been selected as a member of the Australian squad to compete at this year's Commonwealth Games," said assistant coach, Damien Hill.

"He demonstrates many of the attributes we have been targeting for our squad; athleticism, leadership skills and a desire to integrate into the Melbourne community."

Speaking about his move to Melbourne Phipps said,"I am very excited about joining the Melbourne Rebels and the opportunity playing in the new Super rugby side presents me. I'm very impressed with the way the club is structuring things and very much look forward to learning how to improve my game from Sam Cordingley, Richard Kingi and Julian Huxley."