Tuitupou sold on Sale

Published: Wednesday, 6. July, 2011 in category Aviva Premiership
Tuitupou: Joined Sale

The former Worcester star joined up with his new team-mates just in time for a sand dune session at Formby beach, something which came as a surprise to the highly-rated Kiwi.

"It was quite tough, actually it was really tough," admitted Tuitupou.

"I was struggling this weekend after all of that, but now that I've recovered I'm feeling good and ready to get back into."

Despite the eye-opening rigours of pre-season, Tuitupou has been impressed by what he has seen and is excited about the future at the Sharks.

"From the last time I came things have really changed. Steve Diamond has stuck to his word and I'm happy to be part of it," said the 29-year-old.

In what is to be an explosive first fixture, Tuitupou is likely to make his Sharks debut against his former Warriors colleagues at Sixways on September 3.

"It's really exciting, especially playing against your old team-mates at your old ground," added Tuitupou. "It's going to be an awesome start."

Tuitupou's signature from Irish giants Munster has proved a major coup for Sale, who will be looking to the centre to provide the momentum which he has demonstrated so effectively in the past - as well as the tackling prowess that earned him the nickname "Hacksaw Sam".

"He is going to be a key factor in taking the club to a new level, already in training we can see the outstanding skill-set he possesses," said Sharks head coach Pete Anglesea.

"He is a high-quality player who is a model professional and it's going to be very exciting to see him play."

Fans will be sharing in the excitement at the arrival of such a world-class player, with the hope that he can propel this new-look Sharks outfit to loftier heights.