Glen Fisiiahi leaving Warriors to play union with Chiefs

  • 17/08/2015
Glen Fisiiahi (Photosport file)
Glen Fisiiahi (Photosport file)

The Warriors have lost another player to rugby union with Glen Fisiiahi announcing he has signed a two-year deal with the Chiefs.

The 24-year-old is off contract with the Auckland-based NRL club at the end of this season and is following in the footsteps of former teammate Ngani Laumape, who will also play union for the Hurricanes next year.

Fisiiahi will also play in the ITM Cup for Counties Manukau who he played under-18 rugby for.

"I have really enjoyed the league environment but I have rekindled my interest in rugby and want to try a different environment. I'm looking forward to a new chapter in my sporting career and a fresh challenge," Fisiiahi said.

"Glen is a great addition to our group. In the mould of Asaeli Tikoirotuma, he is electric, has a strong skill set and is an outstanding support player. The opportunity to roam on both sides of the park in our game will suit him," Chiefs coach David Rennie said.

After scoring 22 tries in 29 games for the Junior Warriors, Fisiiahi was tipped to be the next big thing but his career has been stymied by a series of injuries since making his first-grade debut in 2011.

"There has never been a question about Glen's ability. He's a hugely exciting player when he's fit," said Warriors head coach Andrew McFadden.

"We've seen glimpses of what he can do, like the four tries he scored against the Tigers in Wellington last year.

"It's been frustrating for him, though, because while the potential was obviously there he just hasn't been able to get on the field often enough and he has now decided he wants to have a shot at rugby union instead.

"Glen is disappointed rugby league hasn't worked out the way he'd hoped and so are we. We'd all been hoping he would come through his setbacks but it wasn't to be. We wish him all the best in rugby union and we’ll certainly be watching his progress with interest."

Fisiiahi played first XV rugby union for Wesley College alongside Chiefs halfback Augustine Pulu and Blues utility Charles Piutau before joining the Warriors.

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