Cartwright confirmed as emerging
Tomahawk coach

Roosters assistant coach John Cartwright is set to follow-up his encouraging debut as USA rugby league coach by leading an emerging Tomahawks side on a tour of Australia.

Cartwright coached the developing nation against the worlds best at the end of last year's Tri nations tour and will retain the role with a batch of American youngsters.

The Tomahawks will play matches in country regions of northern New South Wales and south east Queensland.

The tourists will open proceedings in late-January at the Orara Valley Sevens, the tournament hosted by Oscar-winning actor Russell Crowe.

The squad will have an average age of 21 and be led by Texan Ian Blake, who recently signed with Brisbane.

Elusive winger Nate Smith, who impressed against the Kangaroos and is in the sights of an English Super League club, is also ready to tour.

Former premiership players Brandon Costin and Steele Retchless, who qualify to represent the USA via grandparents, will also tour.

Shane Millard will assist Cartwright.