Northampton Saints
News: Noah Cato Signs for Saints
By COYSDC
April 4 2011
Saracens Winger Noah Cato has signed for Northampton Saints for the next Season 2011/12
Saints sign flying winger
Northampton Saints today announced that Noah Cato will be joining the club ahead of the 2011/12 season. The 23-year-old wing, who moves up the M1 from Saracens, has been a try machine throughout his career from the moment he scored on his Premiership Rugby debut against Leeds Carnegie in 2007.
Cato cemented a place in the Saracens first team in 2008/09, finishing the season as the club’s top try scorer, with his performances also catching the eye of the England Saxons selectors. Another debut try, this time against Portugal, helped earn a call-up for the 2009 Churchill Cup and ultimately a place in the Saxons team that took on Ireland ‘A’ in the final.
Cato’s international experience extends to both the Sevens and Under-20s, too, and his six tries in five matches were key in helping England win an Under-20s Grand Slam in 2008. He extended that total to eight in seven games in the 2008 IRB Junior World Championships, and this prowess has him regarded as one of the brightest wing prospects in the English game.
Born in Brighton and educated at Hurstpierpoint College and the University of Hertfordshire, Cato to date has made 63 appearances for Saracens. Although he has enjoyed his time at Saracens Cato is excited by the prospect of joining the Saints.
“Northampton is a great club with a superb stadium and set-up,” he said. “It’s also one of the best clubs in the Premiership in terms of matchday atmosphere. More importantly the Saints have a competitive team and will be exciting to be involved in that.
“Playing in a back three with two England players will be exciting, and the team has a brilliant pack that can give a platform for everyone to play good rugby. I’m looking forward to working with all the coaches at Franklin’s Gardens, and I’m sure that with their help I can develop my game and hopefully help the team continue improving as well.
“It is a positive move for me, moving from one big club to another. Saracens has been a good place for me to learn and I’m leaving without any bad memories. My experiences there have certainly helped shape me as a person.
“But I also believe that it is time for me to kick on and hopefully establish myself at the Saints next season.”
Director of rugby Jim Mallinder says that Cato is an exciting addition to the Saints squad.
“Noah has shown his abilities and potential for several seasons, both at club level and with England Under-20s and the Saxons,” he said. “He can play both on the wing and at full back, and has pace and skill with the ball in hand. He is certainly an excellent prospect who will bring something good to our squad as we continue to build for the future.”
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Discussion started by ComeOnYouSaints.com , 05/04/2011 06:18
ComeOnYouSaints.com
05/04/2011 06:18
05/04/2011 06:18
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My missus has just been consoling me for that reason. Not that I dislike Cato but it looks like the end for Bruce. I sincerely hope not. As a 30 year old, Bruce has been at The Gardens for the majority of my adult life and is a man I admire and have so much respect for. I would like to think we could keep him on in some capacity but I don't know where.
But anyway, good luck Noah and welcome!
But anyway, good luck Noah and welcome!
Good luck to Noah.
Two years ago he was one of the brightest prospects at Saracens but his careered has stalled a little in the last 12 to 18 months and a change of scenery will hopefully get his career back on track.
Graeme
Two years ago he was one of the brightest prospects at Saracens but his careered has stalled a little in the last 12 to 18 months and a change of scenery will hopefully get his career back on track.
Graeme
Good signing, but does this mean Bruce is going?
I understand that is the case Smurf, his testimonial match will be a major send off!
Welcome Noah
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:06:00 by Lloydie.
I understand that is the case Smurf, his testimonial match will be a major send off!
Welcome Noah
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:06:00 by Lloydie.
Welcome Noah to the fold.
Although I'm thinking the same as the others - the end of Brooooce Brooooce Broooooce :-(
Although I'm thinking the same as the others - the end of Brooooce Brooooce Broooooce :-(
"Many Saints were worried about the end of Bruce and let out a WHALE of despair". But Noah sayeth unto the faithful....
L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.
.....
....
...
..
.
Silence
.....
....
...
..
.
A Distant Bell Tolls
.....
....
...
..
.
A lone tumble-weed disturbs the dust on the road in front of the Saddler's.
.....
....
...
..
.
I'll get my coat
L.I.F.E.G.O.E.S.O.N.
.....
....
...
..
.
Silence
.....
....
...
..
.
A Distant Bell Tolls
.....
....
...
..
.
A lone tumble-weed disturbs the dust on the road in front of the Saddler's.
.....
....
...
..
.
I'll get my coat
welcome. I hope that he can fulfil that potential Jim sees in him.
You can't always get what you want, But if you try sometimes well you might find, You get what you need.
Richards/Jagger
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:25:30 by St Owen.
You can't always get what you want, But if you try sometimes well you might find, You get what you need.
Richards/Jagger
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:25:30 by St Owen.
Good luck to him, he was very entertaining and a crowd favourite a couple of years ago but his heart has not seemed in it since. Witness him giving up the chase on the outsized Barf donkey on Sunday. As someone commented on the Sarries board last season: "Noah Cato is to be x-rayed to see if there is a tackle in him".
Can't see him being more than a squad player for you TBH.
Can't see him being more than a squad player for you TBH.
Welcome Noah and good luck to you to, as you claim 'kick on' or as Robby says step up! A couple of signings that some have some slight doubts about i.e. Lamb and now Cato but I think JM and Doreen know these guys from age group England and Saxons experience and I reckon they (JM & DW) could see potential to bring them on, watch this space.
P.S. I can't get the Image of Peter Sellers (the ONLY Clousaeu) out of my mind
video: [url][/url]
Cue the Pink panther theme after Cato scores..De dum de dum de dum de dum de dum de diddle dum...etc*
Top of the League 2014-2015 Season
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:44:18 by Bob Stainsby.
P.S. I can't get the Image of Peter Sellers (the ONLY Clousaeu) out of my mind
video: [url][/url]
Cue the Pink panther theme after Cato scores..De dum de dum de dum de dum de dum de diddle dum...etc*
Top of the League 2014-2015 Season
Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 2011:04:05:08:44:18 by Bob Stainsby.
I suspect Bruce may be offered a pay as you play type contract given that we will have quite a few missing at the start of the season.
Next year is going to be a tough one given how much we will be missing the Internationals.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Next year is going to be a tough one given how much we will be missing the Internationals.
“Those who desire to give up freedom in order to gain security will not have, nor do they deserve, either one.”
Benjamin Franklin
Tetleys Block F E143
Good signing. From my recollection, he's been out of favour ever since the Dr took over. Although I prepare to stand corrected.
I'm looking forward to the new season. If they can get Cato and Artemiev to almostlearn the same game as Ashton (ie wing but also pop up anywhere and always be the man on the shoulder) we might have a devastating back line.
Nickname? Must be something to do with Pink Panther?
FHS.
I'm looking forward to the new season. If they can get Cato and Artemiev to almostlearn the same game as Ashton (ie wing but also pop up anywhere and always be the man on the shoulder) we might have a devastating back line.
Nickname? Must be something to do with Pink Panther?
FHS.
Good signing for you, he's been underused here in Watford. Never mind, hopefully we'll find some one like you, Noah!
Saracens forever twitter.com/sammymcgoff
Saracens forever twitter.com/sammymcgoff
Just realised he's still only 23! We must be going for players who have seemingly tons of experience but still ridiculously young! Although not liking it as I'm 26 and therefore feeling quite old!
FHS.
FHS.
A great signing for us IMHO; a big welcome to our very own Cato ("you little yellow minky!")
I like it! Bags of ability and a point to prove. Welcome Noah.
Speaking of stepping up has anyone seen that video of his standing jump on to a vaulting horse on youtube. Mighty impressive!
Speaking of stepping up has anyone seen that video of his standing jump on to a vaulting horse on youtube. Mighty impressive!
It's linked in our Noah thread over on the Sarries unofish...
I think our good Dr gave him the benefit of the doubt at the start of last season, but saw more in Tagi and Wyles, and in recent times Short.
He does need a change of club to reignite what is undoubtedly bags of potential. I wish him the best of luck (except in certain games of the season)...
I think our good Dr gave him the benefit of the doubt at the start of last season, but saw more in Tagi and Wyles, and in recent times Short.
He does need a change of club to reignite what is undoubtedly bags of potential. I wish him the best of luck (except in certain games of the season)...
Interesting that Chris Wyles has overtaken him, didn't do that much when he was here so just goes to show that a change of scenery can do wonders, lets hope it does for Noah.
Fingers crossed eh. Could be a lot worse....could have signed Haughton!!
Will be nice to have another big winger out there (no offence Digger). Bruce aint first choice now, so hopefully he'll stick around for back up, both physically and mentally.
Hope JM and DW dont do too good a job on him...2/3 years ago, Flash was great in attack but a tad suspect positionally and executionally in defence......now look at him!
Good luck Noah!
Will be nice to have another big winger out there (no offence Digger). Bruce aint first choice now, so hopefully he'll stick around for back up, both physically and mentally.
Hope JM and DW dont do too good a job on him...2/3 years ago, Flash was great in attack but a tad suspect positionally and executionally in defence......now look at him!
Good luck Noah!
I know Ashton and Artemiev will be away for the world cup. but when they return they will have Digger, Armstrong, Elliot and Cato competing for 2 places on the wing. Somebody will be disappointed.
And if/when Ashton or Digger gets injured we have ...Elliot? Armstrong? Both small and inexperienced.
Be nice to have a bit of depth out there. We looked very light with Ashton away and Bruce injured.
Be nice to have a bit of depth out there. We looked very light with Ashton away and Bruce injured.
armstrong? small?
err...nope.absolutely massive unit (though a little raw).
err...nope.absolutely massive unit (though a little raw).
Sorry, was thinkin more of Elliot. Standing behind the sticks at Bath, our back line looked very lightweight and ineffective (even discounting the fact they had to deal with a rampaging Banahan)
I thought armstrong only had a 1 yr deal. I would hope we could keep bruce will be helpful cover at 15 11 and 14 give the guys an experienced person to look up to but it is a position where depth is good post world cup. Who knows, welcome to noah with digs on the other wing thats a good balance
The rumour at Goldington road last Saturday was Bruce Reihana had signed for Bedford next season, persuaded by Toops allegedly.
Also a certain Steve Thompson was looking to sign! But it is that time of year when the rumour mill goes into overdrive so probably just wishful thinking.
Also a certain Steve Thompson was looking to sign! But it is that time of year when the rumour mill goes into overdrive so probably just wishful thinking.
Christy nli
05/04/2011 14:28
05/04/2011 14:28
welcome Mr. Cato.
Regarding rumour of Bruce to Bedford - can he play fly-half? Bedford's current fly-half is going to Exeter next season, and their only other stand-off is a Saracens academy player (so can be recalled any time).
Regarding rumour of Bruce to Bedford - can he play fly-half? Bedford's current fly-half is going to Exeter next season, and their only other stand-off is a Saracens academy player (so can be recalled any time).
Quote:BEDFORD BOY
The rumour at Goldington road last Saturday was Bruce Reihana had signed for Bedford next season, persuaded by Toops allegedly.
Also a certain Steve Thompson was looking to sign! But it is that time of year when the rumour mill goes into overdrive so probably just wishful thinking.
That would make sense if he's no longer in the equation here, and if he doesn't want to leave the area. As you're collecting ex-Saints, Ben Cohen is a free agent now too
Welcome Noah, the good news is that you won't have to put up with Digger flattening you, every time you visit FG!
Come On You Saints
I reacll seeing Cato a season ago and thinking what an awesome prospect he was. For me there ate absolutely no ifs/buts/qualifications about it. I'm delighted he's seen fit to sign for Saints and expect him to be outstanding for us.
Welcome Noah.
Welcome Noah.
Excellent signing so welcome aboard Noah looking forward to seeing you in the green Black and Gold. Have always enjoyed watching him play.. ps - with a name like 'Noah' - the nickname should be easy..
A lot of comparisons to be drawn with Ashton 2 seasons ago. Had a blistering start to his professional rugby career, scoring tries for fun. Suddenly, development stops and stalls, frustration sets in. Ashton managed to over-come his demons, and I fully believe that Cato can do the same.
A beasting with the Hood pre-season, complimented by the coaching of Jim and Grayse, and we could well have three absolutely lethal attacking wings with scary amounts of pace. Add Diggsy, Elliot and Armstrong to the equation, and an area of weakness in terms of depth suddenly turns into an immensely strong one.
Realistically, Cato's defence is what needs improving. He needs to go back to the basics of tackling, hitting with the shoulder and wrapping the arms - something Ashton used to forget on a regular occasion, hence why he was binned so often in ND1. He might also need a bit more mental toughness - something he can learn from Digger - and throw himself into tackles with no fear.
I cannot wait for next season, our backline options are mouthwatering, and selection is going to be a nightmare. I mean, who starts on the wings, Ashton? Artemiev? Cato? Diggin? Elliot? Also, is Armstrong being converted into a centre? I know he played there in a few Wandies fixtures, particularly against the Army/Navy - not sure which?
As for Bruce, he wont be here next year, which I am gutted about, but would absolutely love to see him go to Bedford, and it wouldn't surprise me in the slightest to be honest. Incredible club servant, and my all-time favourite Saints player.
A beasting with the Hood pre-season, complimented by the coaching of Jim and Grayse, and we could well have three absolutely lethal attacking wings with scary amounts of pace. Add Diggsy, Elliot and Armstrong to the equation, and an area of weakness in terms of depth suddenly turns into an immensely strong one.
Realistically, Cato's defence is what needs improving. He needs to go back to the basics of tackling, hitting with the shoulder and wrapping the arms - something Ashton used to forget on a regular occasion, hence why he was binned so often in ND1. He might also need a bit more mental toughness - something he can learn from Digger - and throw himself into tackles with no fear.
I cannot wait for next season, our backline options are mouthwatering, and selection is going to be a nightmare. I mean, who starts on the wings, Ashton? Artemiev? Cato? Diggin? Elliot? Also, is Armstrong being converted into a centre? I know he played there in a few Wandies fixtures, particularly against the Army/Navy - not sure which?
As for Bruce, he wont be here next year, which I am gutted about, but would absolutely love to see him go to Bedford, and it wouldn't surprise me in the slightest to be honest. Incredible club servant, and my all-time favourite Saints player.
DE Jones
06/04/2011 02:00
06/04/2011 02:00
Another cross your fingers and hope signing methinks, we obviously do not have salary cap money available to sign more international standard players.
I suspect that you are right about the salary cap, Eifion. We've had to adjust to accommodate the probability of losing (at least) five to the RWC. Let's hope that this young man represents value for money.
[lowrence.com]
[lowrence.com]
Quote:DE Jones
Another cross your fingers and hope signing methinks, we obviously do not have salary cap money available to sign more international standard players.
Another genius quote from Eif. Of course were at the limit with 5 England players all commanding big bucks. From our 'cup final' team only Digger and Downey haven't been capped at full international or A level. Tom May currently plays in one of he best sides in Europe. Vaseline, Pisi, PDJ are current internationals. Cato is a Saxon and needs game time and some coaching to become a very good player. Show me another team in England that has recruited as strongly.
The Ospreys have recently discovered that paying massive salaries can't buy success so even if we had the money there's no guarantees.
Come On You Saints
It seems to me that the club (ie., its coaching staff) has shown its ability to turn players with potential into international standard ones. Not "cross your fingers and hope signings", more a calculated risk based on JM's and DW's skill and experience. And, as OSB says, predicated on getting value for money.
Would Chris Ashton, Ben Foden and Dylan (especially Dylan) have made the England team without the development and guidance they got at the Gardens? I don't think so. Maybe the Welsh team, but not the England one.
Would Chris Ashton, Ben Foden and Dylan (especially Dylan) have made the England team without the development and guidance they got at the Gardens? I don't think so. Maybe the Welsh team, but not the England one.
Quote:St Francis
Would Chris Ashton, Ben Foden and Dylan (especially Dylan) have made the England team without the development and guidance they got at the Gardens? I don't think so. Maybe the Welsh team, but not the England one.
Foden and Hartley - yes, they would have gone on to England -eventually if they'd remained at Sale and Wuss respectively. Perhaps sooner as Hartley was banned for the 07 WC and Foden flirted with being a scrum half at the same time as Balshaw was holding the FB shirt.
Ashton - All depends of if he'd have still changed codes and when.
Back on topic:
I hope Reihanas at least given a pay-per-play contract otherwise Saints could be potentially missing most of the backs until November (Flash, Foden, Pisi & The Russian all at the WC, Ansbro leaving, Geraghty and Downey maybe also off).
The best that could be made in Saints backs in that case will be something like
9. Dickson
10. Lamb/Myler
11. Digger
12. Myler/*BIG GAPING HOLE*
13. Clarke
14. Cato
15. Reihana
As for signing Cato - Maybe great, worrying about his defence however. Not as chuffed as I'd have previously been.
The coaches'll sort his defence Chris. May/Armstrong will probably fill the big gaping hole.
Come On You Saints
Come On You Saints
Looking at the twelve or so players who were recruited for this season - in no particular order Clarke, Sorenson, Eustace, Armstrong, Commins, Ford, Tonks, Mercey, Powell,Cornwell, Long and Prescott - four of them; Calum Clarke, Commins, Mercey and Sorenson can be said to be genuine first team squad players at the moment. Of the others there might be some doubt about their future due to age but there must be hope/expectation that players like Armstrong, Ford, Cornwell and Tonks have the potential to improve and stake a claim. Add in the Academy progressers such as Elliott, Waller etc and the new recruits for next season and it looks pretty good.
We only know for sure that we are losing Ansbro and Easter so we might retain Geraghty,Downey and Reihana as well - not so bad eh ?
We only know for sure that we are losing Ansbro and Easter so we might retain Geraghty,Downey and Reihana as well - not so bad eh ?
In addition to May, there's also Cornwell and Tonks that can fill the 12 shirt, as well as the possibility of pushing Clarkey into 12 and playing Elliot or Bruce at 13. I'd say we've recruited fantasticly for next season, and barring any injuries, we will have one hell of a backline when the WC finishes.
I did mention on here after the Bath game that I had seen Noah in the bar. But tweets revealed that he was waiting for Abendanon for a night out.
Then was not the time Cato.
Now is.
Sorry
Then was not the time Cato.
Now is.
Sorry
no way would dyl have risen from the ranks in the same way had he stayed at wuss.
he only had the vaguest idea of playing hooker when he came to us (had just decided to make the switch from prop ) and only had a year in their academy any way . he learned under wally and dan richmond, then nobby .very good grounding.
his throwing was at first appalling, but now excellent . nobody at wuss to teach him and fitness at wuss has also been very poor.
he only had the vaguest idea of playing hooker when he came to us (had just decided to make the switch from prop ) and only had a year in their academy any way . he learned under wally and dan richmond, then nobby .very good grounding.
his throwing was at first appalling, but now excellent . nobody at wuss to teach him and fitness at wuss has also been very poor.
Given his name is Cato and in a film there is a Kato which just happens to be The Green Hornet...nickname per chance?
Maybe the Gold Black and Green Hornet?
Maybe the Gold Black and Green Hornet?
I sincerely hope we regret this one in the future. So much physical ability, but still requires a bit of work on the top 2" IMO. If saints proves to be the right environment for him he could be devastating.
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