Sitili Tupouniua, a key player for the Sydney Roosters for nearly a decade, has opted for a new challenge with the Canterbury Bulldogs. The versatile forward moved from New Zealand as a teenager and became a beloved figure within the Roosters, contributing to their 2016 Holden Cup premiership and later establishing himself in the NRL squad despite battling injuries.
At 27, Tupouniua sought a leadership role, prompting his decision to leave the comfort of the Roosters for a fresh start at Canterbury. He signed a four-year contract, aiming to bring his experience to a squad under coach Cameron Ciraldo, which is poised for future success. Tupouniua expressed enthusiasm about mentoring younger teammates, leveraging the lessons learned from Roosters veterans like Jared Waerea-Hargreaves.
While reflecting on his time with the Roosters, he acknowledged their significant impact on his career but felt it was essential to embrace new opportunities. He has cherished the warm welcome from the Bulldogs community, likening the local vibe to his hometown in New Zealand. As he prepares for the upcoming season, Tupouniua is ready to contribute as part of a strong forward pack, eagerly anticipating the Bulldogs’ opener against St George Illawarra on March 8.