SBS Bank Southland Stags Rookie of the Year Back for Second Season

Up and coming Prop Paula Latu is back for the next two seasons with the SBS Bank Southland Stags.

Latu, who this year is playing for Woodlands in the Go Bus Southland Wide Premier Competition, made a powerhouse debut for Southland in 2021, earning the title of Stags Rookie of the Year and Supporters Club Most Promising Player.

For Paula, at 26, it is just the start of a very promising rugby career, and for him a childhood dream.

“My favourite part is playing alongside players who I grew up watching on TV”, said Latu.

When asked what playing for Southland mean to him, he has his eyes set on big things. “It’s the key to unlocking many great opportunities for my rugby career. Up the Stags!”

For assistant coach David Hall, having Paula recommit to the Stags for a further two seasons is a key component to their squad makeup, especially given the nationwide issue of propping stocks.

“We are super stoked”, said Hall.

“While he (Latu) is still learning his trade in the front row he made every post a winner last year and always turned up keen to learn with a big smile on his face.”

A brut force in the gym, Paula has been training well during the off season while making Southland home.

“He’s in great shape, even claiming to have abs now. We look forward to seeing him develop over the club season and into the NPC campaign.”

Paula will be in action for defending Galbraith champions Woodlands this Go Bus Southland Club Season.