Sea Eagles grant release to Jorge Taufua
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles have today granted a contract release effective immediately to long serving clubman Jorge Taufua.
Off contract at the end of this season, Taufua has been given an opportunity to further his playing career in the Super League with the Sea Eagles deciding not to stand in his way after 10 years of outstanding service to the Club.
The 30-year-old has played 164 games for the Sea Eagles after making his NRL debut for Manly against St George-Illawarra Dragons in round four of the 2012 season.
Taufua has scored 88 tries for 352 points for the Sea Eagles, including a career high 20 tries in 26 games in his second season at Manly in 2013.
He also scored a try in Manly's 2013 Grand Final loss to the Sydney Roosters.
On the international front, Taufua also represented Tonga in five Tests and Samoa in three Tests.
A highly respected player and a much-loved fan favourite for his powerful carries and incredible defensive techniques, Taufua’s 'monster hit' on Melbourne's Cameron Munster at Brookvale was named the NRL's 'Tackle of the Year' in 2019.
Manly Coach Des Hasler praised Taufua on a great NRL career.
Jorge Taufua is a wonderful example of what a true clubman is
Sea Eagles Coach Des Hasler
“He has given the Sea Eagles tremendous service over a decade and is very much respected by not only his team-mates and coaching staff, but by all of his peers across the game.
“Jorge goes about his business in a quiet way and is a very humble man, but when it comes to sheer toughness and putting your body on the line for your team, he is right up there.
“It has been a pleasure to coach Jorge and everyone at the Sea Eagles wishes him all the very best for the future.”
Sea Eagles Chairman Scott Penn said Taufua should be very proud of his achievements over the past decade.
“Jorge Taufua has enjoyed a long and successful career in the NRL,'' Penn said.
“He has scored some phenomenal tries and has pulled off some incredible bone rattling tackles that made him one of the most feared defenders in the game. And a YouTube sensation!
“However, there is far more to Jorge than just his on-field performances. He is a wonderful, caring man who has always put his family first and is highly respected by many of his team-mates and coaches, both past and present.
“We thank Jorge for his tremendous service to the Sea Eagles. He can be very proud of his many achievements and he leaves Manly with our blessing and well wishes for a great future in the UK.”
Interim Sea Eagles CEO Gary Wolman congratulated Taufua on an incredible career.
"Jorge can be extremely proud of what he has achieved at the Sea Eagles,'' Wolman added.
"He has been a much loved player by our Members for many years now and he leaves us with some great memories. We wish Jorge all the very best."
