Marquee recruit Kurt Capewell admits the chance to reunite with head coach Andrew Webster is a "massive reason" behind his decision to sign on with NZ Warriors.
Capewell has ended days of speculation by confirming he'll immediately part ways with Brisbane Broncos to take up a three-year deal at Mt Smart.
The Australian forward worked alongside assistant coach Webster at Penrith Panthers, under Ivan Cleary, during their run to the 2021 NRL Premiership.
Webster has helped lift the Warriors from the doldrums to genuine contenders in the space of a single season, and Capewell is eager to join forces once again with the Dally M Coach of the Year winner.
"Webby has obviously done great things at the club," said Capewell.
"He's a great bloke and I really get along with him on a personal level as well, so he's made the decision easier, that's for sure."
Capewell, 30, was contracted with the Broncos until the end of next season, but the Queensland club wasn't willing to offer him an extension, likely prioritising their salary cap to keep stars like Reece Walsh and Ezra Mam. They ultimately granted him an early release to sign on with the Warriors.
The security of a three-year deal in Auckland was hugely appealing and an offer Capewell simply couldn't refuse.
After helping transform the Broncos from wooden spooners to NRL grand finalists, Capewell insists there's no bitterness in his departure and he's "proud" of the strong position he's left the club in.
"They've got a lot left in the tank too, with what they can do," he said. "They're going to be a powerhouse in the next few years, which was the goal coming here, so I'm happy to leave it in the way that it is at the moment.
"It's definitely upsetting to leave, but it's all a part of the game and I'm grateful the club has allowed me to do it."
Capewell was part of the Broncos team that ended the Warriors' deep playoff run at the preliminary final stage earlier this year.
With the likes of former Dally M medallist Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Chanel Harris-Tavita back in the fray, he's confident the Auckland-based side can go even further next season.
"[The Warriors] are definitely a powerhouse also," he said. "I definitely think we'll be giving the competition a shake next year."
