General Warriors Player Roster and Contracts - 2019

[mt.wellington]

Warriors Player Roster and Contracts - 2019
​

Your one stop shop for all the latest news on Warriors contracts, contract length and signing news. All news is current at the time of posting. We have gone with official club releases as much as we could though some of the original links are no longer available.

Feel free to PM and admin if any errors are spotted.

FORWARDS
​

Adam Blair, Adam Keighran, Agnatius Paasi, Bunty Afoa, Chris Satae, Isaiah Papali'i, Issac Luke, James Bell, Jackson Frei, Jazz Tevaga, Karl Lawton, King Vuniyawa, Lachlan Burr, Leeson Ah Mau, Leivaha Pulu, Ligi Sao, Nathaniel Roache, Peta Hiku, Sam Lisone, Tohu Harris.

BACKS​

Adam Pompey, Blake Ayshford, Blake Green, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, David Fusitua, Gerard Beale, Hayze Perham, Ken Maumalo, Kodi Nikorima, Patrick Herbert, Peta Hiku, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Solomone Kata, Taane Milne.

2018/2019 Losses
​

Albert Vete - Melbourne Storm - Link
Anthony Gelling - Widnes Vikings - Link
Ata Hingano - Canberra Raiders - Link
Simon Mannering - Retired - Link
Manaia Cherrington - Brisbane Broncos - Link
Mason Lino - Newcastle Knights - Link
James Gavet - Newcastle Knight - Link
Joseph Vuna - Mormon mission - Link
Junior Pauga - Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles - Link
Matiu Love-Henry - Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles - Link
Patrick Sipley - Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles - Link
Shaun Johnson - Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks - Link
Solomone Kata - Melbourne Storm - Link
Zac Santo - North Queensland Cowboys - Link Link

2019 Gains
​

Adam Keighran - Penrith Panthers - Link
Adam Pompey - Sydney Roosters - Link
Jackson Frei - Sydney Roosters - Link
Josh Curran - Sydney Roosters - Link
Lachlan Burr - Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs - Link
Leeson Ah Mau - Dragons - Link
Kodi Nikorima - Brisbane Broncos - Link
Patrick Herbert - Dragons
Taane Milne - Free agent - Link

Contract Length By Name​

Adam Blair - 2020 - Link
Adam Keighran - 2020 - Link
Adam Pompey - ? - Link
Agnatius Paasi - 2019 - Link
Blake Ayshford - 2019 - Link
Blake Green - 2020 - Link
Bunty Afoa - 2021 - Link
Chanel Tavita-Harris - 2020 - Link
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad - 2019 - Link
Chris Satae - 2021 - Link
David Fusitua - 2023 - Link
Gerard Beale - 2021 - Link
Hayze Perham - ? - Link Link
Isaiah Papali'i - 2020 - Link
Issac Luke - 2019 - Link
Jackson Frei - Link
James Bell - ?
James Gavet - 2019 - Link
Jazz Tevaga - 2019 - Link
Josh Curran - 2021 - Link
Karl Lawton - 2019 - Link 2021 Link
Ken Maumalo - 2022 - Link
King Vuniyawa - ?
Kodi Nikorima - 2021 - Link
Lachlan Burr - 2020 - Link
Leeson Ah Mau - 2021 - Link
Leivaha Pulu - 2020 - Link
Lewis Soosemea - 2019 - Link
Ligi Sao - 2019 - Link
Nathaniel Roache - 2020 - Link
Patrick Herbert - 2021
Peta Hiku - 2020 - Link
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck - 2022 - Link
Sam Cook - ? - Link
Sam Lisone - 2020 - Link
Shaun Johnson - 2019 - Link
Solomone Kata - 2019 - Link
Taane Milne - 2019 - Link
Tohu Harris - 2021 - Link

Contract Length By Year
​

2019

Agnatius Paasi - Link
Blake Ayshford - Link
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad - Link
Issac Luke - Link
Lewis Soosemea - Link
Ligi Sao - Link
James Gavet - Link
Jazz Tevaga - Link
Karl Lawton
Shaun Johnson - Link
Solomone Kata - Link
Taane Milne - Link

2020

Adam Blair - Link
Adam Keighran - Link Link
Blake Green - Link
Chanel Tavita-Harris - ?
Isaiah Papali'i - Link
Lachlan Burr - Link
Leivaha Pulu - Link
Peta Hiku - Link
Sam Lisone - Link

2021

Bunty Afoa - Link
Chris Satae - Link
Gerard Beale - Link
Leeson Ah Mau - Link
Karl Lawton - Link
Patrick Herbert
Tohu Harris - Link
Kodi Nikorima - Link

2022

Ken Maumalo - Link
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck - Link

2023

David Fusitua - Link

Contract Length Unknown?

Adam Pompey - Link
Hayze Perham - Link Link
James Bell - ?
Jackson Frei - Link
King Vuniyawa - ?
Sam Cook - Link

 

[mt.wellington]

Adam Blair - SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
[Signing] Blair confirmed for three years
Richard Becht |
Wed 4th October, 02:33PM

The Vodafone Warriors have today officially confirmed Kiwi captain Adam Blair’s signing on a three-year contract from next season.

Boasting a 266-game NRL career, Blair joins an impressive list of Kiwi captains who have played for the club including Dean Bell, Stephen Kearney, Duane Mann, Matthew Ridge, Quentin Pongia, Stacey Jones and Ruben Wiki as well as his long-time New Zealand team-mate Simon Mannering.

“Securing Adam is critical to our quest for much-needed improvement from next year,” said Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George.

“He’s a proven leader on and off the field who sets the kind of example we want all our players to aspire to, the epitome of the professional athlete who demands the highest of standards highlighted by an ultra-competitive attitude.”

Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney has worked closely with Blair as Kiwi coach and also as an assistant coach at Melbourne from 2006-2010 and at Brisbane in 2015 and 2016.

“Adam is a wonderful example of how a player should go about his business in the NRL as well as representing his country,” he said.

“He has had a tremendous career and he’s going to be a huge asset for the club as we go about lifting our standards across the board.”

Blair is the Vodafone Warriors’ fourth new signing for 2018 following back rowers Tohu Harris (Melbourne) and Leivaha Pulu (Gold Coast), who were secured earlier in the year, and centre Gerard Beale (Cronulla) last month. Also revealed last month was the signing of renowned strength and conditioning coach Alex Corvo, who has worked with Blair and Kearney at both Melbourne and Brisbane.

Blair has just completed his third consecutive finals campaign with the Broncos since he moved to the Brisbane club in 2015.

He was in Melbourne’s grand final-winning team in 2009, played in the Storm’s beaten grand final sides in 2006 and 2008 and then for the Broncos when they lost the 2015 decider to North Queensland in extra time.

The Whangarei-born Blair has been one of the NRL’s most durable players.

He played all 27 games for the Broncos this year and has averaged 24 games a season in his last 10 campaigns, missing just 15 of a possible 257 games.

He has been ever-present in the Kiwis’ title successes during his 41-Test career, starting at prop in the landmark Rugby League World Cup victory over Australia in 2008 and in the Four Nations successes against the Kangaroos in 2010 and 2014. He also played in the 2006 Tri Nations final and was involved in the Kiwis’ Four Nations campaigns in 2009, 2011 and 2016; the only major tournament he has missed has been the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

Blair is set to lead the Kiwis at this year’s Rugby League World Cup. The New Zealand squad will be named tomorrow.

Adam Blair

Date of Birth: March 20, 1986

Birthplace: Whangarei, New Zealand

Junior Club: Northland Carvers

Position: Prop

Height: 1.88m

Weight: 109kg

Rep Honours: 41 Tests for Kiwis (2006-2017):

Four Nations (2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2016)

Rugby League World Cup (2008)

Tri Nations (2006)

NRL Debut: Melbourne v Wests Tigers, Leichhardt Oval, April 2, 2006 (Round 4)

NRL Career: 266 appearances (2006-2017):

Melbourne: 121 appearances (2006-2011)

Wests Tigers: 71 appearances (2012-2014)

Brisbane: 74 appearances (2015-2017)

NRL Points: 44 points (11 tries)

Link missing https://www.warriors.kiwi/BlairSigned

https://nzwarriors.com/threads/warriors-recruitment-and-rumour-mill-2017.53590/page-130#post-686233
https://www.nzwarriors.com/threads/warriors-player-roster-and-contracts-2018.60518/#post-694535

 

[mt.wellington]

Adam Keighran - SIGNED

League: Warriors sign young Penrith halfback Adam Keighran
30 Oct, 2018 2:45pm
2 minutes to read

Adam Keighran. Photo / bulldogs.com.au
The Warriors have signed a highly rated young halfback from Penrith.

Adam Keighran will join the club for pre-season training next month, after inking a two year deal with the Auckland club.

His arrival could be interpreted as a replacement for Mason Lino, who joined the Knights last month after seven years at Mt Smart.

However, the 21-year-old Keighran is versatile. He played most of his junior football in the halves, but spent almost all of last season at centre.

He was also named in the 2018 Intrust Super Premiership NSW team of the year in the centres.

The left-footed Keighran is also a handy goal kicker. He came up through the grades with the Bulldogs before moving to Penrith.

It's understood the Warriors have been tracking his progress for some time.

He's yet to play first grade, and wouldn't be expected to see much NRL action next season, unless there is a series of injuries at the club.

Aside from Shaun Johnson and Blake Green, Peta Hiku and Chanel Harris-Tevita would be seen as the back-up options in the halves.

But he will certainly add to the utility stocks at the club, alongside the likes of Karl Lawton and Nathaniel Roache, as a player who can cover several positions.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=12151446

 

[mt.wellington]

Agnatius Paasi - SIGNED

League: Warriors sign prop Agnatius Paasi
6 Nov, 2017 2:40pm

Agnatius Paasi of the Titans is tackled by the Bulldogs defence in round 25. Photo / Getty Images

The Warriors have completed the signing of former Gold Coast Titans prop Agnatius Paasi with the 25-year-old inking a two-year deal.

The one-test Tongan international becomes the third former Warriors player to return this off-season, joining outside back Peta Hiku and forward Matiu Love-Henry.

Paasi, who debuted with the Warriors in 2014, made 54 appearances for the Titans across three seasons. He enjoyed a superb Auckland Nines tournament in 2016 that propelled him into a strong season where he played all 25 games for the Titans.

But injury restricted the aggressive and skillful prop to just 11 games this year before he sought a release from the Titans.

"Agnatius became available after being released on compassionate grounds so he and his family could return home," said Warriors CEO Cameron George.

"We're excited to be able to add him to our roster. He's another aggressive forward, just the type Stephen (Kearney) is after as we look to boost our front row resources."

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11941049

 

[mt.wellington]

Albert Vete - RELEASED
Manaia Cherrington - RELEASED
Zac Santo - RELEASED

League: Warriors forward Albert Vete picked up by Melbourne Storm
30 Jun, 2018 3:55pm

Melbourne have confirmed the signing of former Warriors front-rower Albert Vete on a deal that will keep him at the Storm until at least the end of 2020.

Vete was yesterday released by the Warriors to continue his career in Australia, after struggling for game time through the first half of the season.

The 25-year-old Tongan international made just two NRL appearances through the opening 15 rounds, and departs having made 46 outings for the Warriors since debuting against Newcastle in round one of the 2015 season.

His arrival in Melbourne will boost the club's forward stocks with several experienced campaigners – including former Kiwi internationals Jesse Bromwich and Sam Kasiano – currently out with injuries.

The Storm have also announced the signing of two other players - backline utility Tom Eisenhuth and outside back Marion Seve - before the mid-season June 30 deadline.

Eisenhuth arrives from Penrith and is capable of playing both in the centres and the back row and will step in to replace Young Tonumaipea who will depart the Storm after the State of Origin period to follow his Christian faith and embark on a full-time mission overseas.

Seve is yet to make his first grade debut after stints at Wests Tigers and most recently Brisbane, but can slot in at centre or on the wing.

"Our recruitment team have been following the progress of these players and had been in discussion with them to join Storm in 2019, however due to recent injuries in our forward stocks and Young's approaching departure an opportunity arose to have them join our club for the remainder of this season," explained Storm football director Frank Ponissi.

"All three players are of excellent character, Albert will bring further experience to our prop stocks, while Tom has a uniqueness in being able to play both centre and back row.

"Marion is a young exciting talent who we are looking forward to bringing into our system in our outside backs group to replace Young."

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=12080863

CLUB NEWS
Vete to continue career in Australia
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Fri 29 Jun 2018, 03:26 PM

Vodafone Warriors front rower Albert Vete has played his last game for the club after being granted a release today enabling him to continue his career in Australia.

The 25-year-old former Mate Ma’a Tonga international’s midseason move sees him end his Vodafone Warriors stint with 46 NRL appearances since his debut against Newcastle in round one in 2015.

“We really appreciate the contribution Albie has made to the club both on the field and off it,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith.

“He was among a group of young players who came through the system in 2015 and finishes just short of the 50-game milestone. We wish Albie and his family all the best for the future.”

Vete joined the club from a rugby union background, captaining the St Kentigern College First XV to the Auckland secondary schools title in 2011.

He made 37 NYC appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in 2012 and 2013 before joining the club’s wider NRL squad in 2014. As well as 46 NRL games, Vete made 45 appearances for the Vodafone Warriors in the Intrust Super Premiership.

He also made a key contribution off the field, especially through his support of the Harvey Norman Community Warriors’ CSG League in Libraries programme.

Fullback Zac Santo and hooker Manaia Cherrington, who joined the Vodafone Warriors on second tier contracts midway through last season, were released recently. Both have returned to Australia.

Cherrington played 22 times for the ISP team during his term in Auckland while Santo made 15 appearances.

ALBERT VETE

Date of Birth: January 24, 1993
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Mangere East Hawks
Position: Prop
Height: 1.88m
Weight: 112kg
Rep Honours: Two Tests for Tonga (2015), Junior Kiwis (2013)
Previous Clubs: Nil
NRL Debut: v Newcastle, Hunter Stadium, March 7, 2015 (Round 1)
NRL Career: 46 appearances (2015-2018)
NRL Points: 16 (4 tries)
ISP Career: 45 appearances for Vodafone Warriors (2014-2018)
ISP Points: 40 (10 tries)
NYC Career: 37 appearances (2012-2013)
NYC Points: 56 (14 tries)

 

[mt.wellington]

Blake Ayshford - RE-SIGNED
Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad - RE-SIGNED
Lewis Soosemea - RE-SIGNED

Warriors' Ata Hingano agrees new NRL deal
13 Jun, 2017 4:17pm

Ata Hingano. Photo / Photosport.co.nz

Two of the Warriors' most promising youngsters have been locked in for the future, while an experienced member of their backline has also agreed to new terms.

Ata Hingano and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad were both confirmed on new contracts on Tuesday, while Blake Ayshford has also signed until the end of the 2019 season.

However that positive news was offset by the loss of prop Toaf Sipley, who choose to chase first grade opportunities at Manly after being completely overlooked at Mt Smart this year.

"We were keen for Toaf to stay and made a good offer but it hasn't been enough to keep him here," said Warriors recruitment manager Tony Iro.

"While it's disappointing to lose players who come through our system, we wish Toaf all the best."

After playing for the club's NYC and Intrust Super Premiership sides, Sipley graduated to make two NRL appearances last year.

Standoff Hingano (20) will remain with the Warriors until the end of the 2020 NRL season after signing a three-year contract.

After making his NRL debut late last season, he featured in the club's first three games this year and scored his first career try when he made his sixth first-grade appearance off the bench in Saturday's victory over the Titans.

Utility Nicoll Klokstad (21), the club's 2016 Intrust Super Premiership player of the year, has been re-signed on a two-year contract.

He was called up for his NRL debut against the Sydney Roosters on April 30 and appeared in each of the next three games against Penrith, St George Illawarra and Brisbane, scoring doubles against the Panthers and the Dragons.

"While it's disappointing to lose players who come through our system, we wish Toaf all the best."

After playing for the club's NYC and Intrust Super Premiership sides, Sipley graduated to make two NRL appearances last year.

Standoff Hingano (20) will remain with the Warriors until the end of the 2020 NRL season after signing a three-year contract.

After making his NRL debut late last season, he featured in the club's first three games this year and scored his first career try when he made his sixth first-grade appearance off the bench in Saturday's victory over the Titans.

Utility Nicoll Klokstad (21), the club's 2016 Intrust Super Premiership player of the year, has been re-signed on a two-year contract.

He was called up for his NRL debut against the Sydney Roosters on April 30 and appeared in each of the next three games against Penrith, St George Illawarra and Brisbane, scoring doubles against the Panthers and the Dragons.

The 157-game veteran Ayshford (29) has extended his stay until the end of the 2019 season after appearing in 33 games for the Warriors so far.

Halfback Lino (23), who captains the ISP side, has also been secured for two seasons. He was used in three NRL games at the end of the 2016 season and continues to provide back-up to the NRL squad's halves as an integral performer for the ISP team.

"These are all key signings for us as we continue to work towards settling our squad for next year," said Iro.

Wing Lewis Soosemea (19) and second rower Joe Vuna (18), both signed on two-year deals, have been frontline performers for the Junior Warriors after making their debuts in the grade as 17-year-olds.

Mangere East Hawks junior Soosemea has made 45 NYC appearances since 2015 scoring 25 tries including nine in 13 games this season.

He also made his ISP debut last year and represented the Warriors at this year's NRL Nines as well as playing in the club's NRL trial against Melbourne on the Sunshine Coast.

Vuna has played 36 NYC games, appearing 22 times last year and in all 14 games so far this season. He was also in the NRL Nines squad in February.

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11875485

 

[mt.wellington]

Blake Green - SIGNED

[Signing] Green secured until 2020
Richard Becht
Tue 21st November, 09:13AM

Seasoned standoff Blake Green has been secured by the Vodafone Warriors on a three-year contract.

Signed until the end of the 2020 NRL season, the 31-year-old is moving to Auckland after helping the Manly Sea Eagles surge to sixth this season from 13th in 2016.

He’s the Vodafone Warriors’ eighth new signing after Tohu Harris (Melbourne), Leivaha Pulu (Gold Coast), Gerard Beale (Cronulla), Adam Blair(Brisbane), Peta Hiku (Warrington), Matiu Love-Henry (Brisbane) and Agnatius Paasi (Gold Coast).

“We’re delighted we’ve been able to sign a player of Blake’s calibre,” said Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George.

“He wasn’t off-contract but became available through circumstances. It couldn’t have worked out better for us. He’s a terrific player and his experience in winning titles and playing so much finals football will be of huge benefit to us.

“His presence will add both depth and intense competition among the halves, which is exactly what we’re after. On top of that his background at a number of clubs in the NRL and Super League makes him an ideal mentor for our young halves.”

The Vodafone Warriors will become Green’s sixth NRL club and his eighth in all counting Hull Kingston Rovers and Wigan.

He began his first-grade career with Parramatta in 2007 before establishing himself with Canterbury-Bankstown in 2010 following just 19 games in two seasons with Cronulla in 2008 and 2009; he had his first taste of finals football with the Sharks in 2008 and has now appeared in a total of eight NRL finals matches plus Super League play-offs and two Old Trafford grand finals as well as the Challenge Cup final at Wembley.

His one-season stint with the Sea Eagles in 2017 followed two with Melbourne when he played in the 2016 grand final and was in the Storm side stopped one win short of the decider in 2015 by eventual premier North Queensland.

Green spent four seasons in the English Super League with Hull Kingston Rovers and the Wigan Warriors from 2011-2014, savouring the Challenge Cup-Super League grand final double with Wigan in 2013. He won the Harry Sutherland Trophy as man of the match in the Super League decider at Old Trafford while he was in the grand final again in 2014 when Wigan lost to St Helens.

Green has played a combined total of more than 200 top-grade games in the NRL and the Super League.

Blake Green

Date of Birth: September 19, 1986

Birthplace: Fairfield, NSW, Australia

Junior Club: Cabramatta

Position: Standoff

Height: 1.79m

Weight: 97kg

Rep Honours: Australian Schoolboys

Previous Clubs: Parramatta (2007), Cronulla (2008-2009), Canterbury-Bankstown (2010), Hull Kingston Rovers (2011-2012), Wigan (2013-2014), Melbourne (2015-2016), Manly (2017)

NRL Debut: Parramatta v Canberra, Parramatta Stadium, April 7, 2007 (Round 4)

NRL Career: 117 appearances (2007-2010 & 2015-2017):

Parramatta: 6 appearances (2007)

Cronulla: 19 appearances (2008-2009)

Canterbury-Bankstown: 18 appearances (2010)

Melbourne: 50 appearances (2015-2016)

Manly: 24 appearances (2017)

NRL Points: 64 (16 tries):

Parramatta: 0

Cronulla: 4 (1 try)

Canterbury-Bankstown: 8 (2 tries)

Melbourne: 40 (10 tries)

Manly: 12 (3 tries)

Super League Career: 89 appearances (2011-2014):

Hull Kingston Rovers: 40 appearances (2011-2012)

Wigan Warriors: 49 appearances (2013-2014)

Super League Points: 144 (36 tries):

Hull Kingston Rovers: 72 (18 tries)

Wigan: 72 (18 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2017/11/21/signing-green-secured-until-2020/

 

[mt.wellington]

Bunty Afoa - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Afoa re-signed until end of 2021
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Fri 28 Sep 2018, 01:54 PM

The Vodafone Warriors have secured another one of their most promising players after signing front rower Bunty Afoa to the end of the 2021 NRL season.

The Point Chevalier Pirates junior and Toa Samoa international, who turned 22 just last month, is already well-established as one of the club’s first-choice forwards. He needs only six more appearances next year to reach the 50-game milestone.

Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney is thrilled to have Afoa locked in for another three seasons.

“Bunty has been terrific for us, even more so when you consider he was only 21 for almost the entire season,” he said.

“What he gives us is real consistency in effort and performance which makes him one of the most impressive young forwards in the game. He also brings a wonderful attitude in all he does as well and will improve even more.”

Another product out of the St Paul’s College nursery in Auckland, Afoa missed just two of the 25 matches in the club’s 2018 finals-qualifying campaign. He has appeared in 40 of a possible 49 matches in the last two seasons following his NRL debut in 2016.

“I love being part of this club and I’ve really enjoyed my football this year having the chance to play in the middle,” he said.

“I felt a lot more comfortable about my role whether it was coming off the bench or starting but I’ve got a lot more to learn and I want to do all I can to help the team do better next year.

“I feel blessed with the coaching staff and players I have around me to guide me.”

Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith said Afoa was another vital signing as the club sought to secure the players it has developed.

“Bunty is another terrific young player who has come through our nursery,” he said.

“What he has done in such a short time in the NRL is inspirational, a fine example for all young kids in this country who have dreams of making it. He’s a pleasure to have at our club in the way he conducts himself as a footballer and in the community.

“The beauty with him is that he causes no fuss. He’s always helpful, low maintenance and very coachable.”

Afoa was used 16 times off the bench and started seven games this year. He averaged 35 minutes a game, made an average 86 metres including 33 post-contact metres and 24 tackles.

He made a club record-equalling 64 NYC appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors from 2014-2016 and was part of the premiership-winning side in 2016.

BUNTY AFOA

Born: August 20, 1996
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Point Chevalier Pirates
Position: Prop
Height: 188cm
Weight: 108kg
Rep Honours: 5 Tests for Toa Samoa (2016-2018), 2017 Rugby League World Cup
Club and FG Debut: v Gold Coast Titans, Mount Smart Stadium, July 2, 2016 (Rd 17)
NRL Career: 44 appearances (2016-2018)
NRL Points: 12 (3 tries)
Intrust Super Premiership Career: 10 appearances (2015-2017)
Intrust Super Premiership Points: 12 points (3 tries)
NYC Career: 64 games (2014-2016)
NYC Points: 48 (12 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/09/28/afoa-re-signed-until-end-of-2021/

 

[mt.wellington]

Chris Satae - RE-SIGNED
Anthony Gelling - RELEASED

CLUB NEWS

Vodafone Warriors secure Satae until 2021
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Thu 12 Jul 2018, 12:45 PM

Front rower Chris Satae has re-signed with the Vodafone Warriors until the end of the 2021 NRL season.

The 191cm, 114kg prop has established himself on the NRL side’s interchange recently, set to make his seventh straight appearance – and the 11th of his career – when the Vodafone Warriors face Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

“Chris has made big strides this season and has really settled into his role with the NRL side lately,” said Vodafone Warriors recruitment manager Peter O’Sullivan.

“He attracted interest from other clubs, but we were committed to ensuring he stayed with us.

“This is just reward for the work he has put in since coming into our system, developing his game in the Intrust Super Premiership side and taking it up to the next level in the NRL. What we really like about Chris is that there’s still plenty of improvement in him.”

A St Paul’s College old boy, Satae broke into the club’s ISP side in the opening round last season, going on to play 19 times and also earning his NRL debut against the North Queensland Cowboys in round 20.

“I’m really excited knowing I’m going to be here for another three seasons,” said Satae.

“I’m enjoying my time with the players and the coaching staff and I’m really grateful to everyone for the way they’ve helped me.”

In his seven appearances off the bench so far this season, Satae has averaged 23 minutes, almost five carries, 45 metres and 17 tackles a game. Used in 10 ISP matches, he averages 54 minutes, 14 runs, 147 metres and 26 tackles.

Meanwhile, Vodafone Warriors centre Anthony Gelling will return to the Super League at the end of the season after realising his dream of playing in the NRL this year.

Gelling, signed on a one-year deal in January, made his first-grade debut at the age of 27 in the fourth-round victory over the Sydney Roosters.

After more than 110 games for the Wigan Warriors from 2012-2017, he has gone on to make six NRL appearances for the Vodafone Warriors so far this season.

Gelling has been signed to resume his Super League career with the Widnes Vikings next season.

“We’ve really enjoyed having Anthony in our squad this season,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith.

“It’s been great seeing him achieve his goal of playing in the NRL. He has added to our depth and given us experience but now has the chance to return to the Super League.

“He’ll leave with our best wishes and thanks for his contribution but there’s still a lot of football ahead of him this season before he finishes up.”

Gelling has scored two tries in his six NRL games while he has also played six times for the club’s Intrust Super Premiership side.

CHRIS SATAE

Date of birth: October 22, 1992
Birthplace: Tofoa, Tonga
Junior Clubs: Glenora Bears, Point Chevalier Pirates
Position: Prop
Height: 191cm
Weight: 114kg
Rep Honours: NZ Residents (2016)
Club & FG Debut: v North Queensland, 1300SMILES Stadium, Townsville, 22/07/2017 (Rd 20)
Club No: 219
NRL Career: 10 appearances for Vodafone Warriors (2017-2018)
NRL Points: 0
ISP Career: 29 appearances for Vodafone Warriors (2017-2018)
ISP Points: 16 (4 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/07/12/vodafone-warriors-secure-satae-until-2021/

 

[mt.wellington]

David Fusitua - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Vodafone Warriors secure Fusitua until 2023
Richard Bechtwarriors.kiwi
Thu 9 Aug 2018, 06:02 PM

Prolific try-scorer David Fusitua has today re-signed with the Vodafone Warriors until the end of the 2023 NRL season.

It's a deal which will see the 23-year-old Marist Saints junior join an elite list of 10-season Vodafone Warriors which so far numbers just eight.

In his last two campaigns, Fusitu'a has developed into one of the NRL's most complete wingers, underlined by peers across all 16 clubs ranking him the second-best in the 2018 NRL.com Players' Poll.

"Retaining David was a priority for us and we're thrilled to see him staying here long-term," said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

"There's no question he has made tremendous progress, especially over the last two seasons. He provides wonderful value for us in all respects.

"He's a player the club has put a lot of work into to develop into a high-quality footballer and he is repaying the faith we have always had in him."

Now in his fifth NRL campaign since his debut in 2014, Fusitu'a said he was excited to secure his future with the Vodafone Warriors.

"I'm thankful to the club for having faith in me," he said on the eve of his 76th appearance in tomorrow night's Women in League round encounter with Newcastle.

"I grew up always wanting to be a part of the Vodafone Warriors and I'm committed to seeing this club succeed and doing something special here. This is where I want to be."

Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith said signing Fusitu'a for a long term underlined the club's desire to not only develop but retain the best players in the country.

"David is a shining example of the exceptional talent we have here in New Zealand," he said.

"Signing him through to 2023 is a signal that we place the highest value on elite players we have developed and the ones we see being a key part of our future. David's success is something for all young players to aspire to."

Fusitu'a goes into tomorrow night's contest against the Knights having scored 15 tries in 18 matches this season – 15 in his first 13 games of the year – to rank fourth among the NRL's top try scorers. The only player to appear in each of the club's 24 games last year, he has scored 27 tries in his last 42 matches while his career total now sits at 47 tries in 75 games. He has an impressive strike rate of a try every 1.59 games; of the club's leading try-scorers, only Manu Vatuvei is ahead of him with an average of a try every 1.48 games (152 tries in 226 matches).

David Fusitua

Born: October 16, 1994
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Marist Saints
Position: Wing
Height: 189cm
Weight: 103kg
Rep Honours: 2 Tests for Kiwis (2016), 5 Tests for Mate Ma'a Tonga (2016-2017)
Club and FG Debut: v St George Illawarra, Eden Park, March 15, 2014 (Rd 2)
NRL Career: 75 appearances (2014-2018)
NRL Points: 188 (47 tries)
Intrust Super Premiership Career: 16 appearances (2014-2016)
Intrust Super Premiership Points: 48 points (12 tries)
NYC Career: 37 games (2012-2014)
NYC Points: 84 (21 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/08/09/vodafone-warriors-secure-fusitua-until-2023/

 

[mt.wellington]

Gerard Beale - SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
[Signing] Beale confirmed for three years
Richard Becht , Image: www.photosport.nz
Fri 8 Sep 2017, 03:58 PM

With the contract signed only today, the Vodafone Warriors have been able to confirm Kiwi and Cronulla utility Gerard Beale will join the club on a three-year deal from next season.

The 27-year-old 2016 NRL premiership winner is the club’s third new signing after back rowers Tohu Harris (Melbourne) and Leivaha Pulu (Gold Coast) were secured earlier in the year.

“While there has been a lot of discussion about Gerard coming to the club, we weren’t in a position to make an announcement until his contract had been officially signed by both parties,” said Vodafone Warriors CEO Cameron George.

“Now the formalities have been completed, we’re delighted to have him included in our 2018 squad. He was a premiership winner with Cronulla last year and brings exceptional NRL and international experience.”

Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney said Beale would be invaluable for the club.

“Gerard is professional in all he does and has a wonderful attitude,” he said.

“The way he has overcome adversity with injuries earlier in his career shows the sort of character he has. He’s going to be a great addition to our squad with his ability to play in all the positions in the outside backs.”

Heading into the 2017 finals this weekend, Beale has played 161 NRL matches and scored 44 tries in a nine-season career which has seen him used at fullback, centre and on the wing.

He was 18 when he made his NRL debut for Brisbane in 2009, his only match that year, followed by 10 more appearances in 2010. He also played 31 matches for the Broncos in the NYC from 2008-2010.

Brisbane-born Beale, who is of Maori heritage, played for the Junior Kangaroos in 2010 but switched allegiance and made the first of 10 Test appearances for the Kiwis in 2011.

After 63 matches with the Broncos from 2009-2012, Beale spent the next two seasons with St George Illawarra – the first cut short by a season-ending knee injury – before linking with the Sharks in 2015.

He has appeared 70 times for Cronulla. In his 20 matches so far this year he has been used predominantly on the wing, scoring seven tries and averaging 11 runs and 109 metres a game.

GERARD BEALE

Date of Birth: July 18, 1990
Birthplace: Brisbane, Australia
Junior Club: Logan Brothers (Queensland)
Position: Fullback/wing/centre
Height: 1.81m
Weight: 93kg
Rep Honours: 10 Tests for Kiwis (2011-2016), Four Nations (2011, 2014, 2016)
NRL Debut: Brisbane v Manly, Suncorp Stadium, May 10, 2009 (Round 9)
NRL Career: 161 appearances (2009-2017):

Brisbane: 63 appearances (2009-2012)
St George Illawarra: 29 appearances (2013-2014)
Cronulla: 69 appearances (2015-2017)

NRL Points: 176 points (44 tries):

Brisbane: 80 (20 tries)
St George Illawarra: 40 (10 tries)
Cronulla: 14 tries (56 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2017/09/08/signing-beale-confirmed-for-three-years/

 

[mt.wellington]

Hayze Perham - SIGNED

Hayze Perham commits to the New Zealand Warriors
21 Sep, 2017 8:00am
By: David Beck

PROFESSIONAL: Rotorua Boys' High School first XV captain Hayze Perham has signed for NRL side the New Zealand Warriors. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER

Things might be looking up for the New Zealand Warriors as they have signed a young Rotorua player with all the makings of a future superstar.
It has been a tough couple of years for the Auckland-based NRL side, but this month they confirmed the signing of 18-year-old Rotorua Boys' High School first XV captain Hayze Perham.

"Obviously I know how big a change it will be going from schoolboy rugby to a professional lifestyle, so it is daunting but exciting as well," Perham told the Rotorua Daily Post.

"I've been playing rugby and league through school, but knew I had to decide between them this year. The turning point was the Warriors were able to offer me a fulltime commitment - the goal was always to leave school and fully focus on the craft, on improving and getting better as an athlete."

He will join the NRL squad at the end of the year, when he has finished school, and will be shoulder to shoulder with some of the world's best rugby league players.

"I'll be training every day with the NRL team and the coaches will decide if I play in the under-20s, the reserve grade or if I get called up into the NRL team."

He prefers to play in the halves or at fullback - positions currently filled in the Warriors side by Kiwi stars Shaun Johnson and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck.

"That was a huge factor in me going to the club - those are two of the best players in the world in those positions. I'm not really there to try and compete against them, it's more of a learning curve to absorb everything I can from them.

"It's a huge opportunity to not only get better on the field, but off the field as well. I'll be asking them a lot of questions and hopefully they're supportive of that."
Perham said he was very aware of the fact professional sports careers could be short-lived and for that reason it was important for him to finish his education.

"They've actually been really good, they're letting me finish all my school work and focus on that before I join the team. You have to have a back up, you're one injury away from the end of your career so I'm trying to get my university entrance and have something there to support my league career."

He said Rotorua Boys' High School had played a "huge" role in his development as an athlete.

"Looking at the other big rugby schools, they haven't supported league players in a rugby school as well as Rotorua Boys' have done. The rugby coaches and the principal Mr Grinter are really supportive of rugby players trying to make a career out of league - they don't cut down our options and I'm really grateful for them letting me choose my own path."

The highlight of his time playing rugby at Rotorua Boys' High School was winning the national top four tournament in 2015 and he was honoured to captain the side this year.

Like most young Kiwis, his ultimate goal in the long run was to play for the All Blacks, but he was looking forward to forging a career as a rugby league player.

"I've always followed the NRL, the game is really exciting. It's quite different, it's faster and I guess you could say more exciting at times.

"The base skills - passing and kicking - are the same, but the big difference I'd say is the tackling technique. It's a real technical aspect of league, like wrapping the ball, staying in tight and wrestling up top."

Rotorua Boys' High School first XV coach Ruki Tipuna said the Warriors had signed an exceptional talent.

"When I was at school I played with a lot of good players, some really good players who went on to be All Blacks. Hayze is as good as anyone I've played with or seen play at this stage. He's a really talented kid.

"He does a lot of things well, but if you had to pinpoint one it would be his attack, his ability to stand up defenders and his ability to beat a player one-on-one. But, he's also good at putting other guys away and setting other guys up, he's pretty unselfish," Tipuna said.

He said it was rare for someone so talented to also have such a desire to work hard.

"He's already a hard worker now, he's really grounded and humble. It blows me away, I wish I was a bit more like that when I was younger and I'm sure other people do as well.

"We're stoked for him, I'd love to see him play rugby because I'm a rugby man myself and he's a great rugby player, but we're really happy for him. It couldn't happen to a better boy and I'm pretty sure he will push on to higher honours."

https://www.nzherald.co.nz/sport/news/article.cfm?c_id=4&objectid=11923634

 

[mt.wellington]

Isaiah Papali'i - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Another signing with Papali'i locked in
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Wed 3 Oct 2018, 11:58 AM

Vodafone Warriors 2018 NRL Rookie of the Year Isaiah Papalii has capped a memorable week in his career by re-signing with the club until the end of the 2020 NRL season.

On Monday the promising second rower, just turned 20, was named in the Kiwis’ squad for the coming four-Test campaign against Australia and England as well as being selected for the Junior Kiwis for their clash against the Junior Kangaroos in the Trans-Tasman Triple Header at Mount Smart Stadium on Saturday, October 13.

Today he signed a deal which will take him through to a fourth NRL campaign with the Vodafone Warriors after impressing throughout his first full first-grade season.

He joins other young Vodafone Warriors products David Fusitua, Ken Maumalo, Jazz Tevaga and Bunty Afoa who have all recently re-signed.

“Isaiah is a great young prospect who has quickly established himself at NRL level,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

“He’s a wonderful example to players aiming to make it into the NRL coming through our system. He really impresses with his attitude and resilience.”

Papali’i finished his first full NRL season with 20 appearances taking his career tally to 25 after making his debut last year.

Used mainly as a starting second rower on the left edge, Papali’i averaged an impressive 64 minutes a game this year plus 78 metres and 29 tackles along with five try assists.

He made his international debut for Toa Samoa in this year’s Pacific Test against Mate Ma’a Tonga in Sydney.

In 2016, a 17-year-old Papali’i mixed rugby league and rugby union, making 11 appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in the NYC (and representing the Junior Kiwis) while also starring for Mount Albert Grammar School’s title-winning First XV. He quickly moved up to become a regular for the Vodafone Warriors’ Intrust Super Premiership side in 2017 as well as debuting in the NRL.

He’s set to join the Kiwis in camp in Auckland this weekend.

Isaiah Papalii

Born: September 20, 1998
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Clubs: Te Atatu Roosters, Richmond Rovers
Position: Second Row
Height: 182cm
Weight: 108kg
Rep Honours: Toa Samoa (2018), Junior Kiwis (2016, 2017)
NRL Debut: v Newcastle, Mount Smart Stadium, March 5, 2017 (Round 1)
Vodafone Warriors No: 215
NRL Career: 25 appearances (2017-2018)
NRL Points: 16 (4 tries)
ISP Career: 15 appearances (2017-2018)
ISP Points: 24 (6 tries)
NYC Career: 18 appearances (2016-2017)
NYC Points: 24 (6 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/10/03/another-signing-with-papalii-locked-in/

 

[mt.wellington]

Issac Luke - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Luke signed and sealed for 2019
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Wed 3 Oct 2018, 10:14 AM

Veteran Issac Luke has re-committed to the Vodafone Warriors after signing a one-year contract for the 2019 NRL season.

The 31-year-old, whose original three-year contract ended this season, inked his deal this afternoon.

The 43-Test Kiwi’s fourth Vodafone Warriors campaign will coincide with the club’s 25th season since entering the competition in 1995.

“It’s good to have the contract all sorted out,” said Luke.

“We always wanted to stay in New Zealand, my wife and the kids. I’m really happy here at the club and I’m pleased I have another season with the boys.”

Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney welcomed Luke’s re-signing.

“We wanted Issac to stay. It was just a matter of sorting out the details,” he said.

“Now we look forward to him making a big contribution to the side next season.”

Luke played 23 of the Vodafone Warriors’ 25 games this year, scoring six tries while averaging 71 minutes, 72 metres and 31 tackles a game. He had a total of 114 dummy half runs, third behind fellow hookers South Sydney’s Damien Cook and St George Illawarra’s Cameron McInnes.

Late in the season Luke reached the 250-game career milestone while taking his club appearances tally to 66.

ISSAC LUKE

Born: May 29, 1987
Birthplace: Hawera, NZ
Junior Club: Hawera Hawks
Position: Hooker
Height: 174cm
Weight: 90kg
Kiwi No: 749
Kiwi Test Debut: v Australia, Sydney, 2008
Rep Honours: 43 Tests NZ (2008-2018), World Cup (2008 & 2013), Four Nations (2009, 2010, 2011, 2014, 2016), All Golds (2008), NZ v Cook Islands (2013)
Kiwi Points: 64 (4 tries, 24 goals)
NRL Debut: South Sydney v Melbourne, Olympic Park, June 02, 2007 (Round 12)
Vodafone Warriors Debut: Vodafone Warriors v Wests Tigers, Campbelltown Sports Stadium, March 05, 2016 (Round 1)
Vodafone Warriors No: 206
NRL Career: 254 appearances (2007-2018)
NRL Points: 542 (46 tries, 179 goals)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/10/03/luke-signed-and-sealed-for-2019/

 

[mt.wellington]

James Gavet - RE-SIGNED
Leivaha Pulu - SIGNED

[Signings] Gavet and Pulu confirmed
Richard Becht
Tue 23 May 2017, 12:45 PM

CLUB NEWS

Vodafone Warriors front rower James Gavet has had his contract extended to the end of 2019 while New Zealander Leivaha Pulu will move to Mount Smart Stadium from the Gold Coast Titans on a three-year contract next season.

Both aged 27, the two big forwards have also been late developers at first-grade level.

Gavet has played 18 of his 32 career games with the Vodafone Warriors since the start of 2016 and Pulu started his 34-game NRL career in round one last year.

“They both bring size and plenty of enthusiasm and aggression in the way they play the game,” said Vodafone Warriors recruitment and development manager Tony Iro.

“James was in our NYC and NRL squads in 2009 and 2010 and always had potential. It has taken him time to get to this level but he has had a really impressive season since coming back into our first-grade side in round four.

“We’ve been interested in Leivaha for a while. He has worked hard for his opportunity in the NRL and has made a real impact since joining the Titans.”

Gavet – 1.89m and 108kg – followed his only NYC campaign in 2009 with a year in the Vodafone Warriors’ NRL squad in 2010, playing for the now-defunct Auckland Vulcans in the New South Wales Cup (now the Intrust Super Premiership) without breaking into the NRL side.

Moving to Sydney he went on to earn his NRL debut in his only first-grade appearance for Canterbury-Bankstown in 2012 before stints with Wests Tigers and Brisbane.

When he returned home to Auckland last season, the Kelston Boys’ High School fought through the offseason to gain a contract, playing his maiden NRL game for the Vodafone Warriors against his old Tigers side in round one.

Pulu – 1.92m and 115kg – left Auckland as a teenager to attend renowned rugby league nursery Keebra Park State High School on the Gold Coast.

A Marist Saints junior, he made 35 NYC appearances for Wests Tigers in 2009 and 2010 before having links with NSW Cup sides Western Suburbs, Windsor Wolves and Wyong Roos as well as an offseason with Lezignan Sangliers in France.

Pulu was picked up by the Titans on a one-season deal for 2016 and finished up playing in 23 of the club’s 25 games. He has been ever-present for Gold Coast this year and also made his Test debut for Mate Ma’a Tonga in its win against Fiji earlier this month.

Iro said the Vodafone Warriors would be making more recruitment announcements in the coming weeks.

James Gavet

Date of birth: October 19, 1989
Birthplace: Sydney, NSW
Junior Club: Richmond Rovers
Position: Prop
Height: 1.89m
Weight: 108kg
Rep Honours: 1 Test for Toa Samoa (2016)
Previous Clubs: Canterbury-Bankstown (2012), Wests Tigers (2013-14), Brisbane (2015)
NRL Debut: Canterbury-Bankstown v Brisbane, ANZ Stadium, August 8, 2012 (Round 23)
Club Debut: v Wests Tigers, Campbelltown Sports Stadium, March 5, 2016 (Round 1)
NRL Career:

32 appearances (2012-2017):
1 for Canterbury-Bankstown (2012)
12 for Wests Tigers (2013-2014)
1 for Brisbane (2015)
18 for Vodafone Warriors (2016-2017)

NRL Points: 8 points (2 tries)

Leivaha Pulu

Date of Birth: March 27, 1990
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Marist Saints (Auckland)
Position: Prop
Height: 1.92m
Weight: 115kg
Rep Honours: 1 Test for Mate Ma’a Tonga (2017)
NRL Debut: Gold Coast v Newcastle, Cbus Super Stadium, Robina, March 5, 2016 (Round 1)
NRL Career: 34 appearances for Gold Coast (2016-2017)
NRL Points: 16 points (4 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2017/05/23/signings-gavet-and-pulu-confirmed2/

 

[mt.wellington]

Jazz Tevaga - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Vodafone Warriors secure Dally M winner Tevaga
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Fri 28 Sep 2018, 02:11 PM

Utility forward Jazz Tevaga's big week has been iced today with confirmation of his re-signing with the Vodafone Warriors on a one-year deal for 2019 with an option for the 2020 NRL season.

The energetic back rower/hooker, who recently turned 23, has just finished his best NRL season since his 2016 debut making 20 appearances, culminating in him being named the Interchange Player of the Year at Wednesday night’s 2018 Dally M Awards.

“We’ve been really pleased with the way Jazz has developed his game this year and were thrilled when he won the Dally M interchange award this week,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

“He was important to our success, the way he came off the bench to bring energy and toughness playing big minutes.”

The Christchurch-born, Papakura-raised Tevaga took his career tally to 35 appearances this season, averaging 56 minutes, 10 runs, 85 metres and 37 tackles a game.

“There were other offers but I love it here and always wanted to stay,” said Tevaga.

“We made progress this year. We have something to build on and I want to be part of our success next year and after that.”

Tevaga is a product of the club’s development pathways, originally picked up by the Vodafone Warriors after an under-20 open trial in 2013.

“We have a really good crop of young players making their way in the NRL,” said Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith.

“Jazz is another one of them who now joins David (Fusitua), Ken (Maumalo) and Bunty (Afoa) from that group who have re-signed.”

Tevaga became a fixture for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in 2014, going on to play at loose forward in their NYC grand final win over Brisbane when his team-mates included other current NRL squad members Nathaniel Roache, Solomone Kata, Mason Lino, Sam Lisone, James Bell, Maumalo and Afoa.

In 2015 he played another 25 games to finish his NYC career with 45 appearances, was selected for the Junior Kiwis and also made his debut in the club’s New South Wales (now Intrust Super Premiership) side.

In 2016 he made his NRL debut in the third round in a season when he mixed NRL and ISP appearances.

Last year he represented Toa Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup.

JAZZ TEVAGA

Born: September 4, 1995
Birthplace: Christchurch, NZ
Junior Clubs: Burnham Chevaliers (Christchurch), Papakura Sea Eagles (Auckland)
Positions: Loose forward/hooker
Height: 178cm
Weight: 92kg
Rep Honours: 4 Tests for Toa Samoa (2017), Rugby League World Cup (2017), Junior Kiwis (2015)
Club and FG Debut: v Melbourne, Mount Smart Stadium, March 23, 2016 (Rd 3)
NRL Career: 35 appearances (2016-2018)
NRL Points: 8 (2 tries)
Intrust Super Premiership Career: 34 appearances (2015-2018)
Intrust Super Premiership Points: 28 points (7 tries)
NYC Career: 45 games (2014-2015)
NYC Points: 40 (10 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/09/28/vodafone-warriors-secure-dally-m-winner-tevaga/

 

[mt.wellington]

Karl Lawton - SIGNED
Hayze Perham - UPGRADED
Sam Cook - RE-SIGNED
Chanel Tavita-Harris - SIGNED

Titans utility signed and two players upgraded
Richard Becht
Thu 1 Mar 2018, 03:09 PM

Gold Coast utility Karl Lawton has today been signed by the Vodafone Warriors while hooker Sam Cook and highly-promising fullback Hayze Perham have had their contracts upgraded ahead of the 2018 NRL season starting next week.

Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith said Cook and Perham had been rewarded for their performances in the preseason and the club’s NRL trials while the 22-year-old Lawton has been secured on a two-year deal.

Capable of playing in the outside backs, hooker and loose forward, Lawton has made 12 NRL appearances since his debut against the Vodafone Warriors in 2016, an occasion which ended in disappointment when he broke his leg.

He recovered to turn out 11 times for the Titans last season when he alternated between starting at hooker and being on the interchange bench.

“We’re thrilled to be able to secure Karl so quickly following Ata Hingano’s departure,” said Smith.

“While Karl’s versatility is valuable, he'll give us experience and add to our depth.”

Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney welcomed Lawton’s arrival, the club’s 10th new signing for 2018 and the third to join the club from Gold Coast (alongside Lawton’s ex-Titans team-mates Agnatius Paasi and Leivaha Pulu).

“We really like what Karl has to offer and he’ll be a great addition to our squad,” he said.

“He lined up against us twice last season and we’ve also seen him in trials so we have a good understanding of his qualities.

“It’s also pleasing to see Sam and Hayze promoted. They’ve been wonderful during our preseason training programme and also impressed in both trials.”

As well as Cook and Perham, Smith noted other rookie talent featured in the club’s NRL system including Chanel Harris-Tavita, Joseph Vuna and Matiu Love-Henry.

“They’re all examples of the rewards available to young players rising through the ranks at the Vodafone Warriors,” he said.

Northcote junior Cook (24) made 10 NYC appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in 2013 and has since gone on to play 37 times for the club’s Intrust Super Premiership side. The Westlake Boys’ High School product spent 2016 playing in Newcastle before coming back home last year. He played all but one of the team’s 25 games and was named the club’s 2017 Vodafone ISP Team Man of the Year.

Perham joined the club after an exceptional schoolboy career in both rugby league and rugby union, the latter in the Rotorua Boys’ High School First XV. He combined his rugby union commitments with rugby league, playing for the Pikiao Warriors, for his school at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Nationals and for the New Zealand 18s.

Standoff Harris-Tavita (18), the club’s 2017 Vodafone NYC Player of the Year, has rugby league pedigree on both sides of his family (his grandfather Ray Harris represented New Zealand Maori). A Pakuranga College, he played his junior rugby league for the Mount Wellington Warriors while he also had stints with the Richmond Rovers and Howick Hornets. Still eligible for the under-20s for another two years, he played for the Junior Kiwis last year (he has played 39 times for the Vodafone Junior Warriors in the last two years).

Vuna (19) also comes from a family with a strong rugby league heritage. A New Zealand Secondary Schools representative, the ex-Otahuhu College junior and Otahuhu Leopards junior has made 43 under-20 appearances for the Vodafone Junior Warriors over the last two seasons.

After 32 NYC appearances in 2014 and 2015, Love-Henry (22) moved to the Brisbane Broncos for the 2016 and 2017 seasons, where he played for Norths Devils in the Intrust Super Cup without breaking into the NRL. A Taupo Phoenix junior, he also turned out for the Point Chevalier Pirates in Auckland. Fluent in Te Reo, he was educated at Te Kura Kaupapa Maori o Whakarewa | Te Reo Ki Tuwharetoa in Taupo.

KARL Lawton

Date of Birth: November 29, 1995
Birthplace: Murwillumbah, NSW
Junior Club: Burleigh Bears (Qld)
Position: Standoff

Height: 185cm
Weight: 93kg

Previous Clubs: Gold Coast Titans (2016-2017)
Rep Honours: Queensland under-20s (2015)
NRL Debut: Gold Coast v Vodafone Warriors, Mount Smart Stadium, July 2, 2016 (Round 17)
NRL Career: 12 appearances, 2016-2017
NRL Points: 8 (2 tries)

Sam Cook

Date of Birth: August 1, 1993
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Northcote Tigers
Position: Hooker

Height: 180cm
Weight: 92kg

Previous Clubs: South Newcastle
Rep Honours: NZ Maori Resident
NRL Debut: Yet to make NRL debut

HAYZE PERHAM

Date of birth: July 2, 1999
Birthplace: Taupo, NZ
Junior Club: Pikiao Warriors
Position: Fullback

Height: 184cm
Weight: 88kg

Rep Honours: New Zealand 18s (2017)
NRL Debut: Yet to make NRL debut

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/03/01/titans-utility-signed-and-two-players-upgraded/

 

[mt.wellington]

Ken Maumalo - RE-SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Maumalo signed until end of 2022 season
Richard Becht & Photosport.nz
Wed 29 Aug 2018, 03:33 PM

Just three weeks after securing David Fusitua on a new contract, the Vodafone Warriors have now signed his fellow winger Ken Maumalo until the end of the 2022 NRL season.

The new deal is a double celebration for the 24-year-old Papatoetoe Panthers junior, coming just over a week after his partner Lereno Tangata gave birth to their first child Leighken on August 20.

Maumalo’s contract ensures the big men on the wings are locked in by the Vodafone Warriors long-term with Fusitua (23) secured until the end of the 2023 season.

“It’s wonderful for us knowing we have Ken signed for another four seasons after this,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

“He has shown tremendous progress this season with his consistency and attitude. Together with David he gives us so much value at both ends of the field and has plenty of improvement in him.”

Maumalo, who made his Kiwi Test debut in Denver in June, plays his 22nd NRL match of the season – and the 63rd of his career – when the Vodafone Warriors face Canberra in their final regular season match at Mount Smart Stadium on Friday night.

“I’m so grateful to my family and to everyone at the club for the way they’ve supported me throughout my career so far,” said Maumalo.

“It’s a huge privilege to be able to play for the Vodafone Warriors. I owe them so much for giving me the opportunity and showing faith in me.

“I feel a lot better about playing in the NRL now. I’m more relaxed and I am enjoying my footy. That’s the most important thing.”

Vodafone Warriors general manager football Brian Smith said securing Maumalo was another vital signing for the club’s future plans.

“Ken is yet another wonderful young player who has come through our system,” he said.

“The coaching staff have worked hard to develop Ken into a valued first grader and he has responded. He’s having a terrific season and richly deserves the security this long-term contract gives him.”

Together with Fusitua and fullback Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Maumalo has formed a potent back three which has contributed significantly to the Vodafone Warriors claiming a finals berth for the first time since 2011.

Maumalo and his centre partner on the left edge Solomone Kata have provided 16 tries to the Vodafone Warriors’ cause so far this season.

Maumalo has been a standout with his ball-carrying work especially out of the defensive end where he has been integral in starting the side’s sets.

He ranks 12th among all players for most runs with 339, second best for the Vodafone Warriors behind fifth-ranked Tuivasa-Sheck (381) while he’s 10th best for most metres gained with 3283 while Tuivasa-Sheck is fourth with 3919.

On the score of post-contact metres, he leads the way for the Vodafone Warriors with 1187 metres to rank seventh among all players.

KEN MAUMALO

Born: June 16, 1994
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Papatoetoe Panthers
Position: Wing
Height: 191cm
Weight: 106kg
Rep Honours: 1 Test for Kiwis (2018), 4 Tests for Toa Samoa (2016-2017)
Club and FG Debut: v Parramatta, Pirtek Stadium, May 16, 2015 (Rd 10)
NRL Career: 62 appearances (2015-2018)
NRL Points: 56 (14 tries)
Intrust Super Premiership Career: 27 appearances (2014-2017)
Intrust Super Premiership Points: 84 points (21 tries)
NYC Career: 28 games (2013-2014)
NYC Points: 44 (11 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/08/29/maumalo-signed-until-end-of-2022-season/

 

[mt.wellington]

Leeson Ah Mau - SIGNED

CLUB NEWS
Ah Mau returning home on three-year deal
Richard Bechtwarriors.kiwi
Mon 9 Jul 2018, 02:00 PM

Experienced front rower Leeson Ah Mau is coming back to where his career started after signing a three-year contract with the Vodafone Warriors from next season.

The 28-year-old Otahuhu Leopards junior, who made his NRL debut with the Vodafone Warriors in 2009, is now in his seventh season with the St George Illawarra Dragons and made his Kiwi debut in the June 23 Test against England at Mile High Stadium in Denver.

He has been among the Dragons’ best in a campaign in which they have topped the NRL table for most of the season.

A 16-Test Toa Samoa international, Ah Mau has made a total of 169 NRL appearances, 134 of them for the Dragons following 33 for North Queensland in 2010 and 2011 and two for the Vodafone Warriors.

“Leeson will be a wonderful addition to our squad from next season,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Stephen Kearney.

“He’s a big forward who is consistently one of the Dragons’ best week in, week out. He fits the mould of the type of player we’re building our squad around – tough, durable and with a tremendous attitude in all he does on and off the field.

“We’ve always had an interest in him as did a number of clubs, so we’re really excited he was keen to come back home and join the club he started with.”

At 185cm and close to 115kg, Ah Mau provides real size in the middle of the park. In his 15 – all but one off the bench – he has averaged 11 runs and 117 metres including 43 post-contact metres a game (a best of 174 metres in round one) plus 20 tackles (a best of 30) and just four missed tackles all season.

He was a foundation member of the Vodafone Warriors’ NYC side in 2008 going on make his NRL debut in the club’s first-round clash against Parramatta in 2009.

He represented Toa Samoa at both the 2013 and 2017 Rugby League World Cups as well as the 2014 Four Nations.

LEESON AH MAU

Date of Birth: December 20, 1989
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Otahuhu Leopards
Position: Prop
Height: 1.86m
Weight: 113kg
Rep Honours: 1 Test for Kiwis (2018), 16 Tests for Toa Samoa (2013-2017)
Previous Clubs: Vodafone Warriors (2009), North Queensland (2010-2011)
NRL Debut: Vodafone Warriors v Parramatta, Mount Smart Stadium, March 14, 2009 (Round 1)
NRL Career: 166 appearances (2009-2018):
2 appearances for Vodafone Warriors (2009)
33 appearances for North Queensland (2010-2011)
134 appearances for St George Illawarra (2012-2018)
NRL Points: 22 (5 tries, 1 goal)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2018/07/09/ah-mau-returning-home-in-three-year-deal/

 

[mt.wellington]

Ligi Sao - SIGNED

[Signings] Vodafone Warriors secure duo
Richard Becht , Image: www.photosport.nz, www.canberratimes.com.au
Mon 29 May 2017, 03:10 PM

CLUB NEWS

The Vodafone Warriors have re-signed Ligi Sao until the end of the 2019 NRL season and secured Canberra fullback-wing Zac Santo for the rest of this season and next on a second-tier contract.

Sao (24) returned home last season after a three-year stint with Manly which netted 21 NRL appearances from 2013-15.

Used in an interchange capacity in seven games so far this season, Sao had an injury-hampered campaign with the Vodafone Warriors in 2016 which included his first NRL appearance for the club against Canterbury-Bankstown in Wellington.

Santo (24) made his NRL debut with North Queensland in 2014 and has been used twice at first-grade level since joining the Raiders in 2016. A regular for Canberra’s feeder club the Mounties in the Intrust Super Premiership, he was named at fullback in the ISP team of the year last season.

“Ligi has been a great acquisition for us, bringing his experience from Manly and helping to give us depth among our middle forwards,” said Vodafone Warriors recruitment and development manager Tony Iro.

“We’ve been following Zac for a while and we’re excited he has become available in mid-season to give us more options in our outside backs.”

Sao and Santo become team-mates at the Vodafone Warriors almost six years after they were opponents in the NYC grand final in 2011. Santo scored two tries for the Cowboys in a match which was level 30-30 after 80 minutes before Sao and his Vodafone Junior Warriors went on to take the title with a golden point extra-time field goal.

Townsville born and raised Santo has featured in the NRL Nines tournament at Eden Park every year. He was in North Queensland’s title-winning side in 2014 and again represented the Cowboys in 2015 while he was in Canberra’s line-up the last two years.

His only NRL appearance this year was at fullback in the Raiders’ season-opening clash against his old North Queensland side in Townsville.

Santo is due to begin training with the Vodafone Warriors tomorrow.

Ligi Sao

Date of birth: October 11, 1992
Birthplace: Auckland, NZ
Junior Club: Manurewa Marlins
Position: Prop/Loose Forward
Height: 1.87m
Weight: 109kg
Rep Honours: Nil
Previous Clubs: Manly (2013-15)
NRL Debut: Manly v North Queensland, 1300SMILES Stadium, July 14, 2013 (Rd 18)
Club Debut: v Canterbury-Bankstown, Westpac Stadium, April 16, 2016 (Rd 7)
NRL Career: 30 appearances (2013-17)
21 for Manly (2013-15)
9 for Vodafone Warriors (2016-17)
NRL Points: 8 points (2 tries)

https://www.warriors.kiwi/news/2017/05/29/signings-vodafone-warriors-secure-duo2/