After playing stints with the Two Blues back in the early ‘90s and 2000s, former Tongan international Teki Tuipulotu is returning to western Sydney in a big way.
The 54-year-old former fullback has been appointed the new Director of Women’s Rugby and Head Coach at the famous Western Sydney Two Blues.
After finishing up a similar role at Sydney University recently, Tuipulotu said he can’t wait to get back to his western Sydney roots.
“I’m leaving Sydney Uni on good terms. I had a good stint there and the high-performance program is in a good place,” he told Parra News last week.
“The Two Blues were looking for a head coach and having a look out west, they hadn’t done so well lately, so I said maybe it’s time for me to go back home.
“Rugby league has taken hold of western Sydney, but I just want to give an opportunity for those girls that want to play rugby. League and union both go hand in hand; they help each other in many ways. I just want to give girls another opportunity concerning that.”
This isn’t the first time Tuipulotu has worn the Two Blues colours, having played with the club three decades ago.
He’s also been involved with their junior programs while working at the Blacktown Scorpions.
“I was past player back in the ‘90s. If you go to Eric Tweedale Stadium, my photo is up there from when I debuted for Tonga,” Tuipulotu said.
“I did another stint at the Two Blues when I came back from England as well in 2003-04.
“I also did some coaching with them in 2011, and coached with the juniors at Two Blues when I was at the Scorpions.”
In a statement, the Western Sydney Two Blues said they can’t wait to have Tuipulotu’s “in-depth knowledge and experience” as part of their club.
“Part of his new role will be to build clear and positive pathways for both boys and girls, ensuring they are supported from grassroots through to senior rugby,” the statement said.
“With over 20 years of experience at the top level of the game, Teki brings knowledge, leadership and passion that will strengthen our women’s program and connect the next generation of Two Blues.”
Tuipulotu said on top of his much faster commute to work, coaching rugby in western Sydney again – and growing the women’s game – was a no-brainer of a decision.
“I’m very passionate about rugby full stop,” he said.
“But looking at the women’s space, the sport is growing – just look at the Women’s World Cup, it’s been amazing!
“I’d coached men and boys for a long time, it was great, but I needed a different challenge to stimulate my brain.”
Tuipulotu new deal with the Two Blues is for three years, with third year an option.
“I’m there for the long run,” he said.
“I’m there to help Western Sydney grow. I’m there to make a statement.”
Nathan Taylor is Parra News' sports journalist. He also compiles the weekly Chatter on the Box TV column. Nathan is an award-winning journalist, who has worked in western Sydney media for more than a decade.