mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
140. RYAN SHORTLAND
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Ryan Shortland was still playing Rugby Union for the Newcastle Falcons in England during our last visit. That season would be his last at the Falcons who won the wooden spoon that year.
Can't find anything recent on Shortland. He was working for JAG Civil and Drainage Pty Ltd in Mudgeeraba, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia but that company was deregistered in 2020. His Linkenin shows he started there in 2014 so he headed back to Australia straight after his stint with the Falcons.
A search on Facebook shows him now living in Hahei, Coromandel, New Zealand but no luck finding anything that connects him to a job so far.
Have dropped him a message on messenger so hopefully we get a result. Will need a revisit soon.
Was gonna call it on this update but thought I would have one last stab on Instagram and found him. It appears him and his wife are trying to establish an organic farm...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Ryan Shortland was still playing Rugby Union for the Newcastle Falcons in England during our last visit. That season would be his last at the Falcons who won the wooden spoon that year.
Can't find anything recent on Shortland. He was working for JAG Civil and Drainage Pty Ltd in Mudgeeraba, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia but that company was deregistered in 2020. His Linkenin shows he started there in 2014 so he headed back to Australia straight after his stint with the Falcons.
A search on Facebook shows him now living in Hahei, Coromandel, New Zealand but no luck finding anything that connects him to a job so far.
Have dropped him a message on messenger so hopefully we get a result. Will need a revisit soon.
Was gonna call it on this update but thought I would have one last stab on Instagram and found him. It appears him and his wife are trying to establish an organic farm...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
141. RUSSELL PACKER
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Russell Packer had just gotten out of jail a year earlier for an assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was sentenced to 2 years jail. This was reduced to 1 year on appeal. At the time of our last update he was training with the St George-Illawarra Dragons feeder team the Illawarra Cutters.
While researching this one I was quite proud of how well Rusty has turned his life around and the Youtube clip is a great listen on what he is doing now and how he is rehabilitating. Honestly had no idea he was so articulate. This video was posted 30 March 2022.
Haven't been able to find anything on Capestone Developments Ltd apart from the NZ business registry. I think its a renovation company as mentioned by the interviewer right at the end of the Youtube clip but it could be anything construction as per this little exceprt from an NRL article (link right at the bottom of this post as its the same article)
As for Front Row Fencing this is a fence hire company he has set up with fellow team mate Ben Matulino in the Bay of Plenty area.
And to top it all off he is enrolled in a Master of Legal Studies (Corporate and Commercial) at the University of Auckland.
www.nrl.com
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Russell Packer had just gotten out of jail a year earlier for an assault occasioning actual bodily harm and was sentenced to 2 years jail. This was reduced to 1 year on appeal. At the time of our last update he was training with the St George-Illawarra Dragons feeder team the Illawarra Cutters.
While researching this one I was quite proud of how well Rusty has turned his life around and the Youtube clip is a great listen on what he is doing now and how he is rehabilitating. Honestly had no idea he was so articulate. This video was posted 30 March 2022.
Haven't been able to find anything on Capestone Developments Ltd apart from the NZ business registry. I think its a renovation company as mentioned by the interviewer right at the end of the Youtube clip but it could be anything construction as per this little exceprt from an NRL article (link right at the bottom of this post as its the same article)
As for Front Row Fencing this is a fence hire company he has set up with fellow team mate Ben Matulino in the Bay of Plenty area.
TEMPORARY FENCING SPECIALISTS
No job too big or small for us to tackle!
LEADING THE WAY IN TEMPORARY FENCING IN THE BOP REGION
FRONT ROW FENCING
And to top it all off he is enrolled in a Master of Legal Studies (Corporate and Commercial) at the University of Auckland.
'Embracing reality with brutal honesty': Packer achieves MBA dream
Wests Tigers prop celebrates achieving his MBA and transforming his life.
www.nrl.com
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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142. BEN MATULINO
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Ben Matulino was still playing for us during our 2015 update and would leave in 2017 to the Tigers before being medically retired in 2019.
Mutts has been running a lawn mowing company in the Papamoa area since coming back to New Zealand.
I still keep in contact with Ben so he's told me he's going to slowly sell off his business to concentrate on the fencing company we covered in Russell Packers update above. For the sake of thoroughness, Ben Matulino has started a fencing hire company with Russell Packer that operates in the Bay of Plenty area.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Ben Matulino was still playing for us during our 2015 update and would leave in 2017 to the Tigers before being medically retired in 2019.
Mutts has been running a lawn mowing company in the Papamoa area since coming back to New Zealand.
I still keep in contact with Ben so he's told me he's going to slowly sell off his business to concentrate on the fencing company we covered in Russell Packers update above. For the sake of thoroughness, Ben Matulino has started a fencing hire company with Russell Packer that operates in the Bay of Plenty area.
TEMPORARY FENCING SPECIALISTS
No job too big or small for us to tackle!
LEADING THE WAY IN TEMPORARY FENCING IN THE BOP REGION
FRONT ROW FENCING
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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143. MALO SOLOMONA
Last update
nzwarriors.com
We didn't really know what Malo Solomona was doing work wise but the photographic evidence suggested he was working in warehousing somewhere in Auckland. He was also still playing in the Auckland Fox Memorial competition for Pt Chevalier Pirates.
Have a few mutual mates with Malo and one says he's been travelling a lot lately and another says that Malo is a courier driver. Cant find anything on either at this stage. Will need a revisit soon...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
We didn't really know what Malo Solomona was doing work wise but the photographic evidence suggested he was working in warehousing somewhere in Auckland. He was also still playing in the Auckland Fox Memorial competition for Pt Chevalier Pirates.
Have a few mutual mates with Malo and one says he's been travelling a lot lately and another says that Malo is a courier driver. Cant find anything on either at this stage. Will need a revisit soon...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
144. DENAN KEMP
Last update
nzwarriors.com
In 2015 Denan Kemp was doing an electrical apprenticeship in Thirroul, Wollongong, Australia.
These days he's a bit of a rugby league podcast mogul as well as a pub and brewery owner and merchandiser. He is everywhere online with his podcasts on Spotify, Apple, Youtube, Instagram and especially Facebook not to mention his website. Just search Bloke In A Bar in any of those platforms or Locker Room on Facebook to find him.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
In 2015 Denan Kemp was doing an electrical apprenticeship in Thirroul, Wollongong, Australia.
These days he's a bit of a rugby league podcast mogul as well as a pub and brewery owner and merchandiser. He is everywhere online with his podcasts on Spotify, Apple, Youtube, Instagram and especially Facebook not to mention his website. Just search Bloke In A Bar in any of those platforms or Locker Room on Facebook to find him.
Bloke
Bloke is everything footy, beer and great apparel and everything around positive masculinity.
www.blokeinabar.com
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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145. JOEL MOON
Last update
nzwarriors.com
At the time of our last update Joel Moon had just signed a new 5 year deal with Leeds to keep him there until the end of 2018.
You find Moon back on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia running coaching clinics for kids. He hires out his services via an agency called CoachAI on Instagram or their website for $AU100 per hour.
coachai.rezdy.com
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
At the time of our last update Joel Moon had just signed a new 5 year deal with Leeds to keep him there until the end of 2018.
You find Moon back on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia running coaching clinics for kids. He hires out his services via an agency called CoachAI on Instagram or their website for $AU100 per hour.
SUNSHINE COAST One on One Session 10 years and Over - Joel Moon - CoachAi Reservations
Rezdy Online Booking
coachai.rezdy.com
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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146. JACOB LILLYMAN
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Jacob Lillyman was still playing for the Warriors during our last update and would do so until 2017 before returning to Australia to take a 1 year contract with Newcastle in 2018. He would later retire that year.
He actually returned to New Zealand and was living on Waiheke Island for a bit. He's since returned to Australia.
Now just by coincidence I got a message from my good mate and fellow Warriors fanatic Ben Johnson in Taupo sending me a pic of him and Bull at a wedding so I asked him to get us the good oil.
Think he may have been mistaken about the location as there is a Scott Brothers Construction in Longreach, Queensland that is a good 13 hour drive from the Sunshine Coast but one of their Instagram posts does mention FIFO.
They mention another address on their Facebook page but thats just down the road from Longreach and the Australian business regisrty has their address listed as Longreach so Im certain we have the right place.
www.facebook.com
No photos of Bull working but 100% trust the intel so happy to sign this one off...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Jacob Lillyman was still playing for the Warriors during our last update and would do so until 2017 before returning to Australia to take a 1 year contract with Newcastle in 2018. He would later retire that year.
He actually returned to New Zealand and was living on Waiheke Island for a bit. He's since returned to Australia.
Now just by coincidence I got a message from my good mate and fellow Warriors fanatic Ben Johnson in Taupo sending me a pic of him and Bull at a wedding so I asked him to get us the good oil.
They mention another address on their Facebook page but thats just down the road from Longreach and the Australian business regisrty has their address listed as Longreach so Im certain we have the right place.
Scott Brothers Construction
Scott Brothers Construction, Ilfracombe, Queensland. 816 likes · 2 talking about this. Scott Brothers Construction We are a multi-faceted construction company servicing rural Queensland. We...
www.facebook.com
No photos of Bull working but 100% trust the intel so happy to sign this one off...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
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147. LEESON AH MAU
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Leeson Ah Mau was playing for the St George-Illawarra Dragons in 2015 and would join us again in 2019 after making his debut with us in 2009.
Leeson came back home in August 2021 to be with his family after the uncertainty of being able to return during covid lock downs. Two months later he announced his retirement.
Haven't been able to find a single thing on Leeson as he has always been a ghost on social media. I can only imagine he's doing what he said he would and spending time with his family. This search has been a bust but hopefully something will come up in the future. (UPDATE BELOW)
Fri 15 Oct 2021, 01:24 PM
After being acknowledged as a departing NRL player on grand final day, vastly-experienced Vodafone Warriors prop Leeson Ah Mau has confirmed his playing days are completely over.
The off-contract 31-year-old, who has made a total of 223 first-grade appearances since his debut in 2009, was granted permission to return to Auckland before the end of the club’s 2021 campaign to be reunited with his family.
“That’s it for me. I’m finished with footy and now I’m putting my family first,” he said after playing his 13th and last NRL season.
“I really enjoyed my time in the game with the Warriors, Cowboys and Dragons as well as the Kiwis and Samoa.
“I want to thank all the teams, the teammates I’ve had and also the coaches and staff. Now I’m looking forward to spending time with my family.”
In his final season Ah Mau played 18 consecutive matches for the Vodafone Warriors before returning home.
“Leeson’s greatest quality was his consistency in his performance and effort,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Nathan Brown.
“He never played a bad game and could always be relied on. As a club we wish him all the best in his retirement and whatever the future holds for him.”
A foundation member of the Vodafone Warriors’ NYC side in 2008, the Mangere East Hawks junior made his first-grade debut with the Vodafone Warriors in 2009.
He linked up with North Queensland in 2010 and 2011 before beginning a seven-season stay with the Dragons, making 144 games for the club.
He returned home in 2019 playing 44 games for the Vodafone Warriors but missing all but two matches in 2020 after suffering a pectoral injury.
After playing 16 Tests for Toa Samoa, Ah Mau represented the Kiwis in nine Tests in 2018 and 2019.
www.warriors.kiwi
UPDATE:
Saw him having a catch up with Sam Lisone so I messaged Sam and got the following reply. Not sure where but its a good start...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Leeson Ah Mau was playing for the St George-Illawarra Dragons in 2015 and would join us again in 2019 after making his debut with us in 2009.
Leeson came back home in August 2021 to be with his family after the uncertainty of being able to return during covid lock downs. Two months later he announced his retirement.
Haven't been able to find a single thing on Leeson as he has always been a ghost on social media. I can only imagine he's doing what he said he would and spending time with his family. This search has been a bust but hopefully something will come up in the future. (UPDATE BELOW)
Ah Mau: That's it for me - I'm putting my family first
Richard Becht & photosport.nzFri 15 Oct 2021, 01:24 PM
After being acknowledged as a departing NRL player on grand final day, vastly-experienced Vodafone Warriors prop Leeson Ah Mau has confirmed his playing days are completely over.
The off-contract 31-year-old, who has made a total of 223 first-grade appearances since his debut in 2009, was granted permission to return to Auckland before the end of the club’s 2021 campaign to be reunited with his family.
“That’s it for me. I’m finished with footy and now I’m putting my family first,” he said after playing his 13th and last NRL season.
“I really enjoyed my time in the game with the Warriors, Cowboys and Dragons as well as the Kiwis and Samoa.
“I want to thank all the teams, the teammates I’ve had and also the coaches and staff. Now I’m looking forward to spending time with my family.”
In his final season Ah Mau played 18 consecutive matches for the Vodafone Warriors before returning home.
“Leeson’s greatest quality was his consistency in his performance and effort,” said Vodafone Warriors head coach Nathan Brown.
“He never played a bad game and could always be relied on. As a club we wish him all the best in his retirement and whatever the future holds for him.”
A foundation member of the Vodafone Warriors’ NYC side in 2008, the Mangere East Hawks junior made his first-grade debut with the Vodafone Warriors in 2009.
He linked up with North Queensland in 2010 and 2011 before beginning a seven-season stay with the Dragons, making 144 games for the club.
He returned home in 2019 playing 44 games for the Vodafone Warriors but missing all but two matches in 2020 after suffering a pectoral injury.
After playing 16 Tests for Toa Samoa, Ah Mau represented the Kiwis in nine Tests in 2018 and 2019.
Ah Mau: That's it for me - I'm putting my family first
Family first is Leeson Ah Mau's motto after ending his rugby league playing days.
www.warriors.kiwi
UPDATE:
Saw him having a catch up with Sam Lisone so I messaged Sam and got the following reply. Not sure where but its a good start...
Last edited:
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
148. JESSE ROYAL
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Last update we didn't have anything concrete on Jesse Royal's whereabouts apart from the fact that he was back in Newcastle, Australia and was playing for the Kurri Kurri Bulldogs.
Found plenty of tantalising clues that had me searching for ages but no pictures or recent leads.
Its likely he went back to Newcastle and starting working with Ashton Coal again. His wife Kylie was working in accounts with EnergyAustralia.
www.smh.com.au
He definately played for the Newcastle Rebels. I found articles of him playing in WestPac Rescue Helicopter Service Charity Football Day rugby league games but again no pictures or team lists. Just mentions and one as recent as August 2020 but I cant tell if its talking about the latest event or past ones.
commoncause.cfmeu.org.au
Last definitive placement is an article from early 2013 where he is playing for the Newcastle Rebels. Its behind a paywall but I found one from 2012.
June 12 2012 - 12:31am
BIG GAME: Kurri Kurri forward Jesse Royal is excited about running out for the Newcastle Rebels against Central Coast on the weekend.
Jesse Royal has played in big fixtures before but the significance of this weekend’s NSW Country Championship semi-final has not been lost on the former NRL player.
The Kurri Kurri Bulldogs captain, who played 65 matches in the National Rugby League competition with the Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors, will make his debut for the Newcastle representative squad while vying for a spot in the 2012 decider.
The Rebels are out to defend their crown but they must first move past Central Coast at Cessnock Sportsground in order to do so, and Royal will be central to those
aspirations.
The 32-year-old prop missed last year’s successful campaign with work commitments but he will be keen to make up for lost time on Saturday afternoon.
“This is a really big game for us,” Royal said.
“Last year I was on a rotating roster at work with afternoon shifts so I couldn’t make training all the time and it would have been unfair on the other guys if I just played the games.
“But I’m looking forward to this weekend and playing alongside the best players in Newcastle.”
In particular Royal, who joined the Bulldogs at the start of 2011 after an initial deal to play with Kurri Kurri fell through when signed by NRL club the Warriors, said he was excited at the prospects of the Newcastle forward pack.
“We have a great forward pack there,” he said.
“Guys like Billy Towers and Jacob Sinclair from Maitland and the Cessnock boys like Dan Metcalf.”
Royal will pack down with Cessnock’s Brendan Hlad in the front row with former Manly and Cronulla first grader Terence Seu Seu at hooker.
www.maitlandmercury.com.au
Going to have to call it on this one but if anyone in the Kurri Kurri/Hunter region can help us out please comment in his player discussion thread.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
129 Patrick Ah Van - ESL Widnes Vikings Still playing for the Widnes Vikings. Plays on the wing and also goal kicks for them. https://www.widnesvikings.co.uk/club/teams/player_profile?519008-patrick-ahvan They placed 8th last season (2014) and were knocked out in the first week of play offs...
Last update we didn't have anything concrete on Jesse Royal's whereabouts apart from the fact that he was back in Newcastle, Australia and was playing for the Kurri Kurri Bulldogs.
Found plenty of tantalising clues that had me searching for ages but no pictures or recent leads.
Its likely he went back to Newcastle and starting working with Ashton Coal again. His wife Kylie was working in accounts with EnergyAustralia.
Far from a Royal departure, this Warrior is just happy he made the grade
TWO veteran Kiwis props will play their final NRL games tonight at Parramatta Stadium.
He definately played for the Newcastle Rebels. I found articles of him playing in WestPac Rescue Helicopter Service Charity Football Day rugby league games but again no pictures or team lists. Just mentions and one as recent as August 2020 but I cant tell if its talking about the latest event or past ones.
Common Cause - ‘Angel in the sky’ saved our lives
For over 35 years Northern District coal miners have poured millions of dollars into the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. Duralie Lodge Member Chris Griffith and his wife Rachel have both been rescued by the chopper after harrowing accidents.
commoncause.cfmeu.org.au
Last definitive placement is an article from early 2013 where he is playing for the Newcastle Rebels. Its behind a paywall but I found one from 2012.
Royal excited about fronting up for Rebels
By Josh CallinanJune 12 2012 - 12:31am
BIG GAME: Kurri Kurri forward Jesse Royal is excited about running out for the Newcastle Rebels against Central Coast on the weekend.
Jesse Royal has played in big fixtures before but the significance of this weekend’s NSW Country Championship semi-final has not been lost on the former NRL player.
The Kurri Kurri Bulldogs captain, who played 65 matches in the National Rugby League competition with the Newcastle Knights and New Zealand Warriors, will make his debut for the Newcastle representative squad while vying for a spot in the 2012 decider.
The Rebels are out to defend their crown but they must first move past Central Coast at Cessnock Sportsground in order to do so, and Royal will be central to those
aspirations.
The 32-year-old prop missed last year’s successful campaign with work commitments but he will be keen to make up for lost time on Saturday afternoon.
“This is a really big game for us,” Royal said.
“Last year I was on a rotating roster at work with afternoon shifts so I couldn’t make training all the time and it would have been unfair on the other guys if I just played the games.
“But I’m looking forward to this weekend and playing alongside the best players in Newcastle.”
In particular Royal, who joined the Bulldogs at the start of 2011 after an initial deal to play with Kurri Kurri fell through when signed by NRL club the Warriors, said he was excited at the prospects of the Newcastle forward pack.
“We have a great forward pack there,” he said.
“Guys like Billy Towers and Jacob Sinclair from Maitland and the Cessnock boys like Dan Metcalf.”
Royal will pack down with Cessnock’s Brendan Hlad in the front row with former Manly and Cronulla first grader Terence Seu Seu at hooker.
Royal excited about fronting up for Rebels
Jesse Royal has played in big fixtures before but the significance of this weekend’s NSW Country Championship semi-final...
Going to have to call it on this one but if anyone in the Kurri Kurri/Hunter region can help us out please comment in his player discussion thread.
If anyone can help with this update please let us know...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
149. UKUMA TA'AI
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Ukuma Ta'ai during our last update in 2015 was playing for the Huddersfield Giants where he would stay until 2020 before signing with the Newcastle Falcons.
It was just announced in September that Ta'ai had signed a new 2 year contract with the York City Knights.
York City Knights are pleased to confirm the signing of experienced forward Ukuma Ta’ai on a two-year deal, thanks to the support of Squad Builder.
Ta’ai joins the Knights from fellow Betfred Championship club Newcastle Thunder after a two-year spell on Tyneside. His move to the North-East came after an eight-year stint with Huddersfield Giants, helping the Super League club to the League Leaders’ Shield in his first year in the UK.
The 35-year-old is capable of playing both in the back-row and as a prop or loose-forward and has ten Tongan international appearances to his name.
On signing Ta’ai, Knights Head Coach James Ford said: “We’re delighted to sign Ukuma and the physicality that he brings. He has caused us problems every time we’ve played against him and we’re excited to use his qualities and experience.
“He is obviously a very experienced player and I’m confident that his leadership will be central to us making more progress on and off the field.
Discussing how the move to the Knights came about, Ta’ai said: “It came from nowhere really! Obviously, with what happened at Newcastle with them going to part-time, I knew everything would change and I started looking around.
“My agent called and asked if I was interested in York. At the end of the day, they’ve given me the opportunity and I really appreciate it. I know some of the people there from playing together and there’s some people there who I have played against. I’m looking forward to linking up with them.
“I’ve played against them in the last couple of years and I know York are a good side. A lot of the players I played against have played in Super League, like Pauli Pauli. They really have a good side and I know for sure that I will fit in with that.
“I am looking forward to getting out there and do the best thing I can to help the team. My game is pretty much about going forward and taking opportunities. Trying to destroy people is the main thing for a forward and that’s me, I’ll keep doing what I’ve been doing for a few years!
On Ford, Ta’ai added: “I’ve spoken to him and he seems like a really nice person.
“I could be playing both in the middle and back-row but, for me, I’m not the kind of person to pick a position – it’s him. He’ll pick the position for me that he thinks will be best for the team and I’ll take whatever he gives me!”
www.yorkrlfc.com
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
Ukuma Ta'ai during our last update in 2015 was playing for the Huddersfield Giants where he would stay until 2020 before signing with the Newcastle Falcons.
It was just announced in September that Ta'ai had signed a new 2 year contract with the York City Knights.
Ta'ai signs two-year deal!
Sep 28 2022
York City Knights are pleased to confirm the signing of experienced forward Ukuma Ta’ai on a two-year deal, thanks to the support of Squad Builder.
Ta’ai joins the Knights from fellow Betfred Championship club Newcastle Thunder after a two-year spell on Tyneside. His move to the North-East came after an eight-year stint with Huddersfield Giants, helping the Super League club to the League Leaders’ Shield in his first year in the UK.
The 35-year-old is capable of playing both in the back-row and as a prop or loose-forward and has ten Tongan international appearances to his name.
On signing Ta’ai, Knights Head Coach James Ford said: “We’re delighted to sign Ukuma and the physicality that he brings. He has caused us problems every time we’ve played against him and we’re excited to use his qualities and experience.
“He is obviously a very experienced player and I’m confident that his leadership will be central to us making more progress on and off the field.
Discussing how the move to the Knights came about, Ta’ai said: “It came from nowhere really! Obviously, with what happened at Newcastle with them going to part-time, I knew everything would change and I started looking around.
“My agent called and asked if I was interested in York. At the end of the day, they’ve given me the opportunity and I really appreciate it. I know some of the people there from playing together and there’s some people there who I have played against. I’m looking forward to linking up with them.
“I’ve played against them in the last couple of years and I know York are a good side. A lot of the players I played against have played in Super League, like Pauli Pauli. They really have a good side and I know for sure that I will fit in with that.
“I am looking forward to getting out there and do the best thing I can to help the team. My game is pretty much about going forward and taking opportunities. Trying to destroy people is the main thing for a forward and that’s me, I’ll keep doing what I’ve been doing for a few years!
On Ford, Ta’ai added: “I’ve spoken to him and he seems like a really nice person.
“I could be playing both in the middle and back-row but, for me, I’m not the kind of person to pick a position – it’s him. He’ll pick the position for me that he thinks will be best for the team and I’ll take whatever he gives me!”
Ta'ai signs two-year deal!
York City Knights are pleased to confirm the signing of experienced forward Ukuma Ta’ai on a two-year deal, thanks to the support of Squad Builder. Ta’ai joins the Knights from fellow Betfred Championship club Newcastle Thunder after a two-year spell on Tyneside. His move to the North-East came...
www.yorkrlfc.com
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
150. DANIEL O'REGAN
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Last time we looked Daniel O'Regan working for Bridge City Interiors and Construction Ltd in Auckland.
Was just about to give up on Daniel but did one final construction search and randomly came across a link to one of those random contact sites that tries to sell you information.
rocketreach.co
Problem is I cant find anything online to confirm he works there but I did find a photo of him at a function with Geoff Nash who just so happens to be the CEO of Brosnan Construction so it looks and sounds like a duck to me...
Daniel O'Regan, Geoff Nash, Robert Elcombe.
www.channelmag.co.nz
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
Last time we looked Daniel O'Regan working for Bridge City Interiors and Construction Ltd in Auckland.
Was just about to give up on Daniel but did one final construction search and randomly came across a link to one of those random contact sites that tries to sell you information.
Daniel O'Regan email address & phone number | Brosnan Construction Commercial Manager contact information - RocketReach
Get Daniel O'Regan's email address (d******@brosnanconstruction.co.nz) and phone number () at RocketReach. Get 5 free searches.
rocketreach.co
Problem is I cant find anything online to confirm he works there but I did find a photo of him at a function with Geoff Nash who just so happens to be the CEO of Brosnan Construction so it looks and sounds like a duck to me...
Daniel O'Regan, Geoff Nash, Robert Elcombe.
Business Excellence Breakfast at Regatta
The regular Business Excellence Network (BEN) Breakfasts have become an institution on the Shore over the past decade or more. They have recently received a boost by becoming part of the North Harbour Club's annual event schedule and also finding a new home at the...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
151. LEWIS BROWN
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Lewis Brown was playing for Penrith Panthers after leaving the Warriors in 2012.
Brown now runs a fashion label called Earls which he covers in the first 2 minutes of his interview with Monty Betham on Once A Warrior.
Former NRL player Lewis Brown is living out another dream post rugby through luxury clothing line ‘Earls Collection’.
Earls, a namesake inspired by his late father, is the next step of the former Warrior, Panther and Sea Eagle’s journey following retirement in 2019.
“I thought when Rugby League wrapped up, I thought why not chase another passion of mine and live another dream and dive myself into ‘Earls’, which holds a very close piece to my heart,” Brown told Afternoons with Staffy.
“Earl is actually my middle name that I share with my lost father, I lost about four years ago, so I take him on this journey with me now.”
Brown walked away from the game on his own terms to pursue his passion for the industry, with the loss of his father due to mental health a lesson that life’s “too short”.
“What I learnt from my dad’s death, (I) unfortunately lost him to mental health and suicide, so it kind of taught me that life’s way too short to be unhappy,” Brown continued.
“A lot of athletes I feel like we get struck in with this thought in our heads that we’ve only been put on this planet to be an athlete, so when our jobs or our professions and our careers finish we feel a bit lost.
“But for me, I’m one of those people that really want to chase my passion and always go no matter what anyone says… it just burns in the belly every day.”
Despite the brand only being two-and-a-half years old, Earls Collection has been worn by the likes of NBA, NFL and All Blacks players.
www.sen.com.au
www.earlscollection.com
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
Lewis Brown was playing for Penrith Panthers after leaving the Warriors in 2012.
Brown now runs a fashion label called Earls which he covers in the first 2 minutes of his interview with Monty Betham on Once A Warrior.
RETIRED NRL STAR DISCUSSES CLOTHING LINE INSPIRED BY HEARTBREAKING LOSS
BY NICOLE ERASMUS A YEAR AGO
Former NRL player Lewis Brown is living out another dream post rugby through luxury clothing line ‘Earls Collection’.
Earls, a namesake inspired by his late father, is the next step of the former Warrior, Panther and Sea Eagle’s journey following retirement in 2019.
“I thought when Rugby League wrapped up, I thought why not chase another passion of mine and live another dream and dive myself into ‘Earls’, which holds a very close piece to my heart,” Brown told Afternoons with Staffy.
“Earl is actually my middle name that I share with my lost father, I lost about four years ago, so I take him on this journey with me now.”
Brown walked away from the game on his own terms to pursue his passion for the industry, with the loss of his father due to mental health a lesson that life’s “too short”.
“What I learnt from my dad’s death, (I) unfortunately lost him to mental health and suicide, so it kind of taught me that life’s way too short to be unhappy,” Brown continued.
“A lot of athletes I feel like we get struck in with this thought in our heads that we’ve only been put on this planet to be an athlete, so when our jobs or our professions and our careers finish we feel a bit lost.
“But for me, I’m one of those people that really want to chase my passion and always go no matter what anyone says… it just burns in the belly every day.”
Despite the brand only being two-and-a-half years old, Earls Collection has been worn by the likes of NBA, NFL and All Blacks players.
Retired NRL star discusses clothing line inspired by heartbreaking loss
“Earl is actually my middle name that I share with my lost father.”
www.sen.com.au
Earls Collection
Earls grew from the spirit of reinvention. The idea that whether you’re born with a label, or given one, you have the power to redefine it. Each up & coming collection draws inspiration from classic elements and cultural iconography but with an Earls aesthetic. Welcome to Earls.
www.earlscollection.com
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
152. KEVIN LOCKE
Last update
nzwarriors.com
At the time of our last update Kevin Locke was playing for Wakefield Wildcats in the UK Super League competition. Same club he was involved in an incident that involved a number of players stealing the coaches car while drunk.
Over the years he's had a few attempts at resurrecting his career but to no real avail bar a couple feeder or lower division teams. The following clip is an excellent breakdown of his career to date.
He appeared on Monty Bethams show Once A Warrior 2 months ago but was somewhat vague about what he was doing now other than to say he had just got back from France, had a new baby a week ago and was getting back on the tools.
Getting back on the tools means working as a scaffolder for Knobby according to this article that was published the same week as the Monty Betham interview.
www.aucklandleague.co.nz
Haven't been able to track down exactly which company he works for.
One other thing we know about Locke is that he is still playing league and this season turned out for his junior club Northcote Tigers helping them win the Sharman Cup...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
At the time of our last update Kevin Locke was playing for Wakefield Wildcats in the UK Super League competition. Same club he was involved in an incident that involved a number of players stealing the coaches car while drunk.
Over the years he's had a few attempts at resurrecting his career but to no real avail bar a couple feeder or lower division teams. The following clip is an excellent breakdown of his career to date.
He appeared on Monty Bethams show Once A Warrior 2 months ago but was somewhat vague about what he was doing now other than to say he had just got back from France, had a new baby a week ago and was getting back on the tools.
Getting back on the tools means working as a scaffolder for Knobby according to this article that was published the same week as the Monty Betham interview.
Kevin Locke finding passions off the field back home
Kevin Locke has had a unique career in rugby league, including 88 games for the Warriors and eight tests with the...
www.aucklandleague.co.nz
Haven't been able to track down exactly which company he works for.
One other thing we know about Locke is that he is still playing league and this season turned out for his junior club Northcote Tigers helping them win the Sharman Cup...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
153. AARON HEREMAIA
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Aaron Heremaia was last playing for Hull FC in the Super League when we last looked him up when he left the club after the 2011 season. He would play there before joining Widnes Vikings in 2015 and retiring in 2018. He played 283 1st grade games.
He then moved to Mackay, Queensland, Australia in 2019. Heremaia started playing for the Carlton Devils that year. In 2020 he was player/coach then in 2021 he quit playing to just concentrate on coaching.
Almost immediately after his arrival in Mackay he announced that he was opening a food truck called Hellacool Creamery. It has a permanent spot at Caneland Central in Mackay but also does pop ups around the area.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
Aaron Heremaia was last playing for Hull FC in the Super League when we last looked him up when he left the club after the 2011 season. He would play there before joining Widnes Vikings in 2015 and retiring in 2018. He played 283 1st grade games.
He then moved to Mackay, Queensland, Australia in 2019. Heremaia started playing for the Carlton Devils that year. In 2020 he was player/coach then in 2021 he quit playing to just concentrate on coaching.
Almost immediately after his arrival in Mackay he announced that he was opening a food truck called Hellacool Creamery. It has a permanent spot at Caneland Central in Mackay but also does pop ups around the area.
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
154. ISAAC JOHN
Last update
nzwarriors.com
In 2015 Isaac John was playing for the Penrith Panthers in what would be his last season in the NRL though he would play for Manly-Warrigah Sea Eagles lower grades and Mount Pritchard Mounties. In 2017 he retired from playing rugby league.
John currently is the creative director and co-owner of the clothing brand YKTR (You Know The Rules) which was founded in 2016 with James Segeyaro and Corey Norman, and the trio went on to form another business named YKTR Sports in 2019.
John also started the podcast The Ice Project in 2019 but he also hosts some of the YKTR vlogging page on Youtube. Some of his insider content on the daily running of his business is quite informative.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
In 2015 Isaac John was playing for the Penrith Panthers in what would be his last season in the NRL though he would play for Manly-Warrigah Sea Eagles lower grades and Mount Pritchard Mounties. In 2017 he retired from playing rugby league.
John currently is the creative director and co-owner of the clothing brand YKTR (You Know The Rules) which was founded in 2016 with James Segeyaro and Corey Norman, and the trio went on to form another business named YKTR Sports in 2019.
John also started the podcast The Ice Project in 2019 but he also hosts some of the YKTR vlogging page on Youtube. Some of his insider content on the daily running of his business is quite informative.
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
155. SIUATONGA LIKILIKI
Last update
nzwarriors.com
During our last update we only knew that he was living on the Gold Coast. The rest of our search drew nothing but blanks.
Managed to get a hold of him on Instagram and he's a machine operator and still living on the Gold Coast. Trying to get a company name so we'll see if he replies with one.
Also played a game for the MMT Old Boys team in March this year.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
During our last update we only knew that he was living on the Gold Coast. The rest of our search drew nothing but blanks.
Managed to get a hold of him on Instagram and he's a machine operator and still living on the Gold Coast. Trying to get a company name so we'll see if he replies with one.
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
156. JAMES MALONEY
Last update
James BBQ Maloney was playing for the Sydney Roosters who he won the 2012 Premiership with before winning another Premiership with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in 2016.
Not clear whether he will be going another year but he played the 2022 season with French Elite 1 team FC Lezignan XIII. According to their site he is. This is the team that he was stood down from last season for testing positive to cocaine.
Last update
James BBQ Maloney was playing for the Sydney Roosters who he won the 2012 Premiership with before winning another Premiership with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in 2016.
Not clear whether he will be going another year but he played the 2022 season with French Elite 1 team FC Lezignan XIII. According to their site he is. This is the team that he was stood down from last season for testing positive to cocaine.
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
157. BRETT SEYMOUR
Last update
nzwarriors.com
Brett Seymour was returning to Mackay to coach Northern Suburbs Red Devils for the next two years when we checked on him in 2015. That was after a stint with Whitehaven and Dewsbury in the UK.
Found Brett Seymour on Linkedin. I can't find much more on Quick Break Cleaning Technologies online and even their website is no longer working.
Only other thing I could find was that he is the coach of the Toowoomba Valley Roosters Rugby League Club...
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
Brett Seymour was returning to Mackay to coach Northern Suburbs Red Devils for the next two years when we checked on him in 2015. That was after a stint with Whitehaven and Dewsbury in the UK.
Found Brett Seymour on Linkedin. I can't find much more on Quick Break Cleaning Technologies online and even their website is no longer working.
Only other thing I could find was that he is the coach of the Toowoomba Valley Roosters Rugby League Club...
mt.wellington
Warriors Orange Peeler
Contributor
158. JEREMY LATIMORE
Last update
nzwarriors.com
During our last update Jeremy Latimore was having a stand out season with the Penrith Panthers. Read his bio below from his Linkin account to find out everything he did in between.
These days he's working as a mortgage specialist at Oxygen Home Loans.
At Oxygen we have a very simple value proposition. Provide our customers with a higher quality of advice, the most competitive loan, and do it hassle free.
Last update
General - 2015 Warriors Where Are They Now?
149 Ukuma Ta'ai - ESL Hudderfield Giants Still with Hudderfield. They came 3rd last season but lost both lives in the playoffs including a 57-4 thrashing by Wigan in week 1... https://www.giantsrl.com/locker_room/first_team/player?ukuma-taai
During our last update Jeremy Latimore was having a stand out season with the Penrith Panthers. Read his bio below from his Linkin account to find out everything he did in between.
These days he's working as a mortgage specialist at Oxygen Home Loans.
About Oxygen
At Oxygen we have a very simple value proposition. Provide our customers with a higher quality of advice, the most competitive loan, and do it hassle free.
About Oxygen | Oxygen - Home Loans Made Simple
At Oxygen we have a very simple value proposition. Provide our customers with a higher quality of advice, the most competitive loan, and do it hassle free.
www.oxygen.com.au
