Who is Scott Galeano? York Knights’ New Signing From Australia Explained

York Knights fans—there’s a new name on the team sheet, and he’s come a long way to get here. If you’ve not heard of Scott Galeano, don’t worry. You’re probably not alone. But the Aussie winger (or centre, depending on the day) is set to bring some serious pace and power to the Knights’ back line.

Here’s what you need to know about him—and why the club’s buzzing about this signing.

A bit about Scott Galeano

So, who is this bloke joining the Knights? Scott Galeano is a 26-year-old outside back from Australia. That means he plays either on the wing or in the centre—basically, the kind of guy you want sprinting down the pitch or crashing through defenders when the game’s on the line.

Until now, he’s been playing for the Sunshine Coast Falcons, a team that feeds into Melbourne Storm, one of the big dogs in the NRL (that’s the top league in Australia). Galeano has spent the last three years there, playing in the Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup—which is a proper tough competition, kind of like the Championship here.

He first broke into that level in 2022, playing for the Tweed Seagulls. Since then, he’s only gone up in people’s estimations.

Why York Knights wanted him

York haven’t just pulled a name out of a hat here. Galeano’s coming in with some decent stats. Last year, in 2024, he racked up 10 tries in 21 games for the Falcons. Not bad going at all.

Even better, he got to pull on the Melbourne Storm jersey in a trial match back in 2023. Sure, it wasn’t a full NRL game—but when a club like Storm gives you a run-out, you’ve clearly got something.

Mark Applegarth, the Knights’ head coach, is pretty chuffed with the signing:

“I’m really delighted we’ve managed to secure Scott.
There were a number of clubs over here interested in him.
From the games I’ve watched of him—and that’s been quite a few—he’s going to be a massive addition to our back line.
So I’m really delighted to have him over the line and I can’t wait to welcome him over.”

So yeah, safe to say he’s a fan.

What makes Galeano stand out?

If you’re wondering what kind of player Galeano is, think speed and smart finishing. He’s not just quick, he’s got a knack for being in the right place when the ball comes loose or a gap opens up. Imagine someone who can turn half-chances into points, and that’s what York are banking on.

And the fact that other UK clubs were sniffing around? That only adds to the hype. Clearly, this wasn’t a secret signing. The Knights had to move fast—and thanks to Squad Builder, they got it done.

Wait, what’s Squad Builder?

Right, so Squad Builder is a programme that helps the Knights strengthen their team by getting support from fans and backers. Think of it as a club piggy bank with a rugby twist. It lets the club go after exciting talent without overstretching themselves financially.

In Galeano’s case, that backing made the difference. Without it, this deal might not have happened.

When’s he arriving?

Galeano’s expected to land in York from Australia in the next couple of weeks, so fans won’t have to wait long to see him in action. There’s no word yet on exactly which game he’ll debut in—but keep your eyes on the fixtures.

If he hits the ground running, he could be a huge part of the club’s push through the 2025 and 2026 seasons. He’s signed on till the end of 2026, so there’s plenty of time to see what he can do.

Quick facts about Scott Galeano

• Age: 26
• From: Australia
• Position: Winger / Centre
• Previous clubs: Sunshine Coast Falcons, Tweed Seagulls
• NRL trial appearance: Melbourne Storm, 2023
• 2024 stats: 10 tries in 21 games
• Contract: With York Knights until the end of 2026

With a fresh face, a solid track record, and some serious pace, Scott Galeano could become a fan favourite before we know it. Keep an eye out—he might just be the spark York have been looking for.