ACT Brumbies pair Ollie Sapsford and Tamati Tua have re-signed with the club for the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific season.
Tua and Sapsford were instrumental in the Brumbies’ thrilling 37-33 quarter-final victory over the Hurricanes, the New Zealand duo will now return to their home country with the Brumbies taking on the Chiefs in the Semi Finals this Saturday.
Sapsford joined the club at the end of 2021, making his debut against the Western Force in round one of 2022. Featuring more in the starting group this season, Sapsford has made 19 appearances to date for the Brumbies, crossing the whitewash in his last two outings.
27-year-old Sapsford said he was thrilled to be staying in the ACT.
“It’s awesome to have next season sorted and to be staying here in Canberra with the Brumbies,” said Sapsford.
“I’m grateful to the club and the coaches for taking a punt bringing me over and for working with me, and to the boys for welcoming me in. Being able to contribute more on the field this year, I’ve felt even more a part of this club and I’m proud to be going back to New Zealand this week as a Brumby and with this team.”
Tua, a product of Northland rugby, has been a valuable contributor to the Brumbies in his first season in Australia, the former Junior All Black playing in 12 games this season, scoring two tries.
Tua, 25, said he’s loving his time in Canberra and is looking forward to another year here.
“Leaving home last year, getting out of comfort zone was a big change for me but I’m happy I made the decision to come to the Brumbies.”
“The boys have been great, and I’m enjoying the lifestyle here in Canberra so I’m excited to stay.”
Sapsford and Tua’s retention will add to the Brumbies’ continuity for next season, with the majority of the club’s senior squad locked in for 2024.
Safeguard Global ACT Brumbies head coach, Stephen Larkham said: “Being able to keep both Ollie and Tamati at the club next season is great for us.”
“Both have shown that they can grow and perform in our program and have fit in well in our environment.
“It’s a special week for the club but I imagine for Ollie and Tams, going home to New Zealand to play in the Semi Finals will feel particularly special and we’re certainly happy they chose to cross the ditch and play their rugby with us.”
