Roger Tuivasa-Sheck’s new boss has revealed how he was able to bring the Warriors winger to Super League.
Speaking to media after his side’s 26-14 win over York, Wakefield head coach Daryl Powell said Samoan international Jazz Tevaga was pivotal in securing Tuivasa-Sheck’s signature.
“He has the same agentas Jazz’s agent, so we got news that he would [be available],” Powell said.
“I think this comes from the way that you deal with players, you get an ability for agents to tip you up on players that might be available and Roger then became available and we got aware of it.”
Tevaga is in his first season with Wakefield after signing from the NRL’s Manly Sea Eagles and was previously a teammate of Tuivasa-Sheck’s at the Warriors.
Powell said he and the club’s chairman had a Zoom call with Tuivasa-Sheck and his agent, Bruce Sharrock, before Tevaga discussed how the club works from a player’s perspective.
“He wanted to do it pretty quick, Roger was wanting to make a decision on his future and get it over the line, then he could put it behind him and concentrate on what he’s doing at the Warriors this year.”
Jazz Tevaga (left) helped to clinch Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's move to Wakefield. Photo / Photosport
Powell was surprised at the speed of the announcement and said the club were “forced” into it because the winger came out and confirmed the news himself.
“To bring him to Super League is a great bit of business from the club, for Super League, but obviously for us as well.
“To have a player of his magnitude and ability and leadership qualities I think is huge, so I think we clearly want to do special things at Wakefield.”
Powell wouldn’t say where he planned to play Tuivasa-Sheck when he arrives at the club, but stressed the importance of his leadership.
“He’s a player capable of playing in numerous positions, I think ultimately for me, his leadership, his ability that wherever he plays, his ability is phenomenal.
“But his leadership in our back division. We’ve got high-quality players in our back division, quite a lot of young players, and I think he’ll help significantly in terms of leadership in the group and a role model for the way that he presents himself and the way that he prepares himself and plays.”
