The Dolphins are very happy to introduce a new signing for 2019 in Shem Tatupu. At 197 cms and 105 kgs he brings some welcome size to the playing list. Originating from New Zealand, Shem was a highly rated rugby league and union player growing up before signing with Hawthorn as a Category B rookie between 2013 and early 2016. He then signed a rookie NRL deal at Melbourne Storm before playing AFL football with St.Kilda City in 2018.
Our senior coach Danny Ryan had a big smile after the signing . ‘Shem is a really ballistic-type athlete who we see as playing as a key forward and providing some relief ruck work. He actually trained with us last year for a period and introduced a tackling program for the players in the back third of the year. He is without doubt one of the most popular players we have in the group. He’s got some work to do to build his tank and get himself into game shape, but his involvement in league programs across two codes means he knows the requirements of an elite athlete. Some of our smaller forwards will love his contested work in the forward 50, which is an area we identified for improvement this year.’
Stay tuned to www.frankstonfc.com.au for more signings over the coming weeks and updates from pre-season training.
