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“Never thought I'd be back”: Taukeiaho seizing opportunity after NRL comeback
Sam Kosack • February 25th, 2025 4:25 pm
Two years ago, Siosiua Taukeiaho was sure his days playing in the NRL were over.
This time last year, the former Roosters’ prop was playing for the Catalans Dragons in France after an illustrious NRL career that consisted of 169 games and two premierships.
Now, a one-year deal at the Manly Sea Eagles is providing Taukeiaho the opportunity to return to the NRL, and he’s ready to seize it.
“I never thought I’d be back in the NRL, especially after being away for two years and especially my age as well,” Taukeiaho told SEN.com.au at the club’s season launch.
“I feel like my goal stays the same, to win a premiership, but my reason is always trying to provide for my family, trying to give back to them.
“They’re the main reason why. It’s what motivates me to do what I love, but obviously being here at Manly; it’s a great squad, there’s so much potential here.”
Taukeiaho debuted for the Warriors in 2013, playing one game before joining the Roosters where he played eight years of first grade for the club, featuring in their 2018 and 2019 premiership wins.
Building a closely-bonded culture at Manly has been a strong focus of the Seibold-era on the Northern Beaches; something that Taukeiaho instantly felt when he arrived at the club.
“I felt it after my first week when I started at Manly,” Taukeiaho said.
“Then the older senior players started coming in like (Daly) Cherry-Evans and Tom Trbojevic… I just felt the strong culture.
“The connection they have together with all the younger players but also with the staff as well.”
Taukeiaho will be hoping to complete an unlikely and spectacular NRL comeback by making his Sea Eagles debut in Round 1 when the club host the North Queensland Cowboys on March 8 at 4 Pines Park.
