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The Michael Witt phone call that helped change Taine Tuaupiki’s career
Jaxin Daniels • August 26th, 2026 11:57 am
Taine Tuaupiki has been on in fire this season for the Warriors | Photo: Andrew Cornaga/AAP
Former Warriors playmaker Michael Witt has revealed the role he played in Taine Tuaupiki’s path to the NRL.
Tuaupiki has become an important part of the Warriors’ side, with his goal-kicking adding extra value as the club pushes towards the finals.
Witt, who played for the Warriors from 2007 to 2009, first became aware of Tuaupiki while coaching with the Burleigh Bears on the Gold Coast.
After Tuaupiki was left without a club, Witt contacted former Parramatta teammate Andrew Webster.
“I called him after our season finished, Taine didn't have anywhere to go and I called him and said we got this kid here,” Witt said.
“He's just an ultimate competitor. He's a great talker, a great lad, and a great football player, that they should give him an opportunity.”
Michael Witt during his time at the Warriors | Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
Tuaupiki had previously come through the Titans system, where he was told was too small, but Witt said the young fullback had responded by returning to the game with a renewed focus.
“He started playing for enjoyment and just really, really worked on his game and was so coachable."
While Witt was happy to make the call, he believes Tuaupiki’s own work was ultimately responsible for his success.
“He was always destined to get there, whether I made a call to Webby or not,” he said.
The former Warriors halfback believes Tuaupiki’s rise is also a reflection of the environment Andrew Webster has created at the club.
“They just look like a connected group,” Witt said.
“Obviously they got an amazing coach there who has great systems in place because everybody who comes in does a good job.”
“They are the real deal,” he said.
Listen to the full interview below:
