Asu Kepaoa #236

[tony soprano]

That’s true but has anyone seen him play or we going off highlights cause everyone’s putting him in the side without seeing him play

We had him lined up on a 3 year deal from next year so you would have to assume the club has taken a good hard look at him to offer him 3 years.

This has been posted before but read the section on how the Roosters recruit to fit the team. It is reassuring in terms of Kepaoa's future.

https://www.espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id/28694534/building-nrl-premiership-winning-team-draft-free-league

Great article that one

 

[tiger_one]

That’s true but has anyone seen him play or we going off highlights cause everyone’s putting him in the side without seeing him play

We had him lined up on a 3 year deal from next year so you would have to assume the club has taken a good hard look at him to offer him 3 years.

This has been posted before but read the section on how the Roosters recruit to fit the team. It is reassuring in terms of Kepaoa's future.

https://www.espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id/28694534/building-nrl-premiership-winning-team-draft-free-league

Thanks champion @pawsandclaws1 - I also loved the article.
Our club is certainly aiming higher.
Previous recruitment processes have failed - but club expectations and professionalism appears to be coming together.

 

[fibrodreaming]

That’s true but has anyone seen him play or we going off highlights cause everyone’s putting him in the side without seeing him play

We had him lined up on a 3 year deal from next year so you would have to assume the club has taken a good hard look at him to offer him 3 years.

This has been posted before but read the section on how the Roosters recruit to fit the team. It is reassuring in terms of Kepaoa's future.

https://www.espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id/28694534/building-nrl-premiership-winning-team-draft-free-league

Thanks for the link paws. A very interesting article.

 

[Russell]

Thanks Paws - great article and very informative.
Hope Camroux makes it big, looks good at this stage.

 

[CarltonDry]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment 🤷‍♂️

 

[Cairnstigers]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment 🤷‍♂️

You could ask Madge

 

[avocadoontoast]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment 🤷‍♂️

I could be wrong but my understanding is Madge made the signing not solely based on his youtube highlights package.

 

[Needaname]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

 

[JC99]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment 🤷‍♂️

Let’s not forget our head of recruitment Adam Hartigan was at the roosters and is probably the one who brought Asu to the club. I’m sure he and Madge had a close look at the kid and him getting a 3 year deal must mean they rate him

 

[pawsandclaws1]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment 🤷‍♂️

This is the player we are chasing from Nth Qld. I believe he is highly rated. It seems we are targeting elite juniors.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-contracts-2019-cowboys-teenager-squad-2020-raiders-signings/news-story/ddc63d4a055d80130bffde824f46590b

 

[JC99]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment ?‍♂️

This is the player we are chasing from Nth Qld. I believe he is highly rated. It seems we are targeting elite juniors.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-contracts-2019-cowboys-teenager-squad-2020-raiders-signings/news-story/ddc63d4a055d80130bffde824f46590b

I asked some cowboys fans I know about this guy and he seems very highly rated by them.

He’s a big boy and a second rower which we will definitely need depth there next season

 

[JC99]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

Interesting that it says he could be considered for next weeks game. Only person I could see making way in our back line is Mbye

 

[pawsandclaws1]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

Interesting that it says he could be considered for next weeks game. Only person I could see making way in our back line is Mbye

On the cusp of NRL selection with injury preventing his selection for the Roosters is pretty good.

 

[BalmainBoy]

I think SBW is $150k or something..
Similar to Gasnier a few years ago returning from French Rugby..
SBW notional value is $600k, so a 1/4 of a year (rest of the season after quarantine) comes in around $150k which goes into the cap for the year.

 

[JC99]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

Interesting that it says he could be considered for next weeks game. Only person I could see making way in our back line is Mbye

On the cusp of NRL selection with injury preventing his selection for the Roosters is pretty good.

Yeah, same boat as Blore who would’ve played NRL by now if it wasn’t for injury and he did great. Giving these guys their debuts hopefully makes them want to stay here, it’s something both Garner and Twal mentioned when they re-signed, that this club had faith in them and gave them debuts and they want to stay and help build the club going forward

 

[tony soprano]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

Interesting that it says he could be considered for next weeks game. Only person I could see making way in our back line is Mbye

Most likely talau , Lawrence or bJ or if mbye ends up at fb if douei has another shocker .

 

[tony soprano]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment ?‍♂️

This is the player we are chasing from Nth Qld. I believe he is highly rated. It seems we are targeting elite juniors.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-contracts-2019-cowboys-teenager-squad-2020-raiders-signings/news-story/ddc63d4a055d80130bffde824f46590b

Where u hear that mate?

 

[pawsandclaws1]

Am I missing something...after watching the highlights reel I'm not seeing anything special to warrant a 3 year deal. Has anyone actually seen him play and can give an honest assessment ?‍♂️

This is the player we are chasing from Nth Qld. I believe he is highly rated. It seems we are targeting elite juniors.

https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/nrl-premiership/nrl-contracts-2019-cowboys-teenager-squad-2020-raiders-signings/news-story/ddc63d4a055d80130bffde824f46590b

Where u hear that mate?

He was mentioned on page 155 of the Signings Thread by Tigerballs as a player we had spoken to as well as Asu Kepaoa, Dean Blore and Cade Cust. He fits in with the new recruitment strategy as there is a Telegraph article which describes him as the best young player at Nth Qld.

 

[Newtown]

if he was extra special they would be concerned to have lost him
At present a great player for the squad lets see what he can do.

Roosters had to find every extra cent so they could sign sonny Bill. Sorry, Just joking

 

[Snake]

Kepaoa follows SBW to league, only to make way for his Roosters return

Adrian ProszenkoJuly 29, 2020 — 1.31pm
Sonny Bill Williams probably doesn’t realise how he shaped the career of the player who has made his return to the Roosters possible.

Well before Asu ‘AJ’ Kepaoa agreed to an early transfer to Wests Tigers, a move that opened up a top-30 spot for Williams at the premiers, the promising outside back was a huge fan of the cross-code star.

When Kepaoa was on a scholarship at Sacred Heart College in Auckland, a renowned rugby nursery that has produced 22 All Blacks, he grew up hoping to make his name in the 15-man game. But then he saw the impact Williams had on the Roosters and the NRL, and decided that was the path he wanted to follow.

“Sonny has had a massive influence on me, especially as a little Islander boy coming out of New Zealand,” Kepaoa told the Herald.

“I was getting close to going to rugby union [until he switched back]. Just the way he goes about things, how professional he is off the field, just inspires me.

“The little things he does off the field show on the field. It would have been good to learn a few things off Sonny, take notes on what he does at training.”

Instead, of making his mark at the Roosters, Kepaoa is now a Tiger. The 20-year-old had agreed last month to join the joint-venture outfit on a three-year deal and the parties were keen to expedite the move. The Tricolours held firm until they needed to free up a spot for Williams. The move will prove mutually beneficial.

Kepaoa had been on the cusp of an NRL debut countless times for the Roosters, but injury struck just as he was about to get his chance. The three-quarter had hoped to get a few games alongside Williams, but instead could come up against him when the teams clash in round 15.

“I would love to, for sure, that would be awesome,” Kepaoa said.

It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now.

“The Roosters is a top-class team, they have plenty of first-class players and I felt my opportunity was blocked there. An opportunity popped up and I felt I could get more experience at the Tigers. I felt it was best for me, it was good timing.

“It’s a massive win for me, it gives me a chance to play first grade now. It’s an opportunity to get out and get some game time, just expose myself out there.

“I feel like I gained a bit of knowledge under the likes of Brett Morris, Ryan Hall and all those first-class wingers. It's been good, but now I feel it’s time to move on.”

Tigers coach Michael Maguire opted not to rush Kepaoa into his side for Friday’s clash with the Warriors, given he only just arrived at the club. However, he will be considered for selection the following week against Newcastle.

Kepaoa is ready whenever the opportunity arises. Had it not been for a torn pectoral that sidelined him for much of last season, he would have already made his NRL debut. He may not be the only player in his family to eventually do so.

Younger brother Petelo, 17, remains in the Roosters system and is considered a future first-grader. They may get the chance to square off in coming years.

“That’s the dream for both of us,” said Kepaoa, who is completing business and interior design courses.

“It would be good to get our family name out there. I can’t wait, hopefully the journey goes well for him.

“One of my main goals is to get my parents a house. I want to make sure I grind it out.”

Interesting that it says he could be considered for next weeks game. Only person I could see making way in our back line is Mbye

Most likely talau , Lawrence or bJ or if mbye ends up at fb if douei has another shocker .

The pressure is on with bringing him in at this stage of the season .. the backline has no X factor non ballplaying / slow as .. this guy could just be what’s missing . I think any position from 5/8 out could be up for grabs you don’t bring it to the table your gone ! This is how you finally break the finals drought .!