By Aaron Wilson
When Tautalatasi Tasi got the phone call from director Heyneke Meyer recruiting him to join the SaberCats, the Australia native didn’t hesitate to join the Major League Rugby squad.
It has been an extremely strong fit so far for the athletic wing for the undefeated SaberCats (2-0), who are hosting the Miami Sharks at home Saturday night.
“I was back home in Australia and Heyneke called to see if I was interested to play for Houston,” Tasi said. “There’s nothing better than playing for him and this organization.”
Tasi scored a try in the SaberCats’ season-opening victory over the Utah Warriors.
“Very honored,” said Tasi after being named Live Oak Man of the Match. “Obviously, it’s my first game for the club. I hope it sets the tone for the season. We have a whole new squad this year. We’ve got really good depth. We’re just trying to play smart. When you get your chance, try to do the best you can.”
As part of a returning playoff squad that won 10 games last season, Tasi is one of many impactful newcomers.
“Phenomenal guy, Tasi was unbelievable,” SaberCats coach Pote Human said “You can see why everyone thinks so highly of him.”
Born in Auckland, New Zealand, Tasi, who’s Samoan, moved to Queensland, Australia as a child.
After playing junior rugby for the Goodna Eagles, he was signed by the Ipswich Jets in the Queensland Cup. He later played for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, the North Sydney Bears, in the Queensland Premier League, the Sunwolves and the Toronto Arrows.
Now, he’s adding a speedy dimension to the SaberCats revamped roster.
“I bring experience and aggression,” Tasi said. “I just want to bring that hard-charging style to the club.”
