Career
A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative forward, he played his club football in the NRL for the Parramatta Eels, and in Super League for Hull Kingston Rovers, who he also captained. In addition to representing Australia internationally, he has played for the Malta Knights as he is of Maltese descent. Vella was selected to play from the interchange bench for New South Wales in Game II of the 1999 State of Origin series.
At the end of the season he helped the Australian national team to victory in the final of the 1999 Tri-nations tournament.
Vella played for the Parramatta Eels at prop forward in their 2001 NRL grand final loss to the Newcastle Knights. After that he represented Australia during their successful 2000 World Cup campaign and the following year went on the 2001 Kangaroo Tour.
He also captained the club in his final year, 2011. Vella returned to Australia, and is currently working as a Personal Trainer at Fitness First, Castle Hill.
Super League Tries
Scores and results list Mick"s try tally first.
