Newcastle snap up Misi Taulapapa
Newcastle have made another statement of intent by signing veteran centre Misi Taulapapa from Featherstone.
The former Samoa international will bring a wealth of experience to Thunder next season, making 38 appearances in the NRL with New Zealand Warriors and Cronulla Sharks and playing over 230 games in the Championship with Sheffield Eagles and Rovers.
Taulapapa was actually set to join Gateshead Thunder back in 2010, but the deal fell through during a difficult time for the club.
On his move to Newcastle in 2019, Taulapapa said: “The club’s ambition was appealing because they want to get into Super League in the near future.
“I’m an experienced player so I just want to give back to the young players coming through at the club. I still have that hunger for the game, I just hope my experience can help Thunder get to where they want to go.
“I just like where the club is heading, the coaches are youthful and that is what you need these days.
“I’ve been around for some years now and I want to work with the youth at the club. I’ve still got a lot to give and it’s good to see the development going on at the club, from the Under-16s and Under-19s, they have got a lot to offer. It is a great time to sign for Thunder.”
The former Samoa international becomes the 21st member of Thunder’s 2019 squad.