PENARTH residents have praised former Welsh Rugby Union winger Louis Rees-Zammit on his dream move to the NFL.

Louis Rees-Zammit swapped Wales for Kansas after signing a three-year deal with back-to-back Super Bowl champions the Kansas City Chiefs.

Born in Llandough, and raised in Llandaff the superstar signed his contract for the Chiefs alongside proud parents Joseph and Maxine on Friday, March 29.

Councillor Anthony Ernest for Penarth told the Penarth Times that he is delighted by the news.

He said: “I wish him the greatest success in his new career.”

The 23-year-old announced on January 16 that he was quitting rugby to pursue a dream career in the NFL.

Watch: Rees-Zammit says he wants to inspire others in Penarth and across Wales to take the NFL Journey. 

The news of his departure from Welsh Rugby shocked fans and pundits all over the world, but residents in Penarth have backed his move to America.

Jacqui Kempa, a member of the Penarth Bowling Club added: “It is amazing that he has the courage to follow his dreams and I wish him all the best.”

Since he arrived in America, he has impressed the likes of the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Denver Broncos before signing with the Kansas City Chiefs.

His aim to is impress coach Andy Reid to gain a place on the Chief's final roster ahead of the new season, which starts on Thursday, September 5.

Penarth Times: LIVING THE DREAM: from Rugby (L) to the NFL and signing for Kansas City Chiefs (R). Picture: Huw Evans Agency/Kansas City ChiefsLIVING THE DREAM: from Rugby (L) to the NFL and signing for Kansas City Chiefs (R). Picture: Huw Evans Agency/Kansas City Chiefs (Image: Huw Evans Agency/Kansas City Chiefs)Alun Davies, a Penarth resident, added: “He is a professional sportsman, he must earn his money the best way he can.

“If he doesn’t make the cut over other candidates who have been playing the game all their lives then he can return to rugby with his head held high.”

The former Welsh Rugby Union full back is one of 90 international players on the pre-season roster, with only 53 spaces on the active roster in September.

If successful he could be running out as a running back alongside stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes to help the team chase a third consecutive Super Bowl title.

Dad Joseph Zammit took to social media to say how proud he is of his son chasing his NFL dream.

In the statement, he said: “Well it's all sorted, amazing for Loy and the whole family. It’s been an awesome few days here waiting for it to get sorted out but worth the stress.

“It's an amazing opportunity for Lou and the family to enjoy Kansas City.”