Exciting fullback Taine Tuaupiki has been upgraded to a fulltime NRL contract with the One New Zealand Warriors for the 2023 season.
Brought to the club on a train and trial deal, the 23-year-old was one of a host of players who excelled in the One New Zealand Warriors’ 48-12 win over Wests Tigers in their first NRL trial at Mount Smart Stadium.
He had an exceptional rookie season in the Queensland Cup last year when he won the Petero Civoniceva Medal as the competition’s best and fairest while also being named the rookie of the year.
“Taine has taken every opportunity since joining us for the preseason last November,” said Andrew McFadden, the club’s general manager recruitment, development and pathways.
“We had agreed on terms earlier in the week and what we saw from him in the trial just reinforced what a quality player he is.”
Tuaupiki delivered a performance on Thursday night highlighted by his dazzling footwork and speed.
“We’ve been thrilled with Taine from the moment he came to the club,” said One New Zealand head coach Andrew Webster.
“He fully deserves this chance after the work he has done while on a trial contract. He brings a special dimension to our squad and certainly has the ability to debut in the NRL soon.”
Tuaupiki consistently dominated opposition sides in the Queensland Cup last season.
Averaging 147 metres a game, he scored 14 tries, made 105 tackle breaks and 25 line breaks as well as providing 22 try assists.
While he was both in Sydney, he’s from Taharoa on the southern side of Kawhia Harbour, which is also home for teammate Te Maire Martin.
TAINE TUAUPIKI |
|
|---|---|
| Born | August 31, 1999 |
| Birthplace | Sydney, NSW |
| Junior clubs | Ngaruawahia Panthers (Waikato), Runaway Bay Seagulls (Queensland) |
| Position | Fullback |
| Height | 178cm |
| Weight | 83kg |
| Queensland Cup career | Burleigh Bears (2021-2022) |
| Queensland Cup games | 23 (2021-2022) |
| Queensland Cup points | 56 (14 tries) |
