Alaimalo had turned out in pre-season, after returning to the team late last year as a replacement player, and was expected to be called on only if an injury occurred. Instead, he was named to start on the wing in week one.
It was a great sight for New Zealand rugby supporters after Alaimalo had taken time out of the game to address his mental health. His last Super Rugby match was for the Highlanders in 2021.
His recent stint with Canterbury in New Zealand’s NPC further solidified his reputation as a formidable talent - gaining the province’s 2023 NPC Rookie of the Year award.
The announcement was made by Wests Tigers head coach Benji Marshall, who expressed his excitement about the acquisition. Marshall highlighted Alaimalo’s potential contribution to the squad, emphasising not only his on-field prowess but also his leadership qualities and wealth of experience.
“We’re very excited to have Solomon join the club,” Marshall said.
“He will also add leadership and experience to our group, and he is a man of great character.”
Alaimalo arrived in Sydney on a Sunday evening and wasted no time integrating himself into his new team. His first training session with Wests Tigers took place at the state-of-the-art Zurich Centre on Monday, providing him with a glimpse of the team’s facilities and setting the tone for the upcoming season.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career, Alaimalo shared his positive impressions from his first day.
“This place is amazing, and I can’t wait to settle in and get stuck into pre-season training.”
The seasoned player also acknowledged the presence of familiar faces within the squad, including coach Marshall.
Alaimalo believes this will facilitate his adjustment to life at Wests Tigers, describing the team as a supportive environment.
“There are a lot of guys in the squad who are from back home, including Benji, so that probably will make it even easier for me to adjust to my new home here at Wests Tigers,” he said.
While gearing up for an intense pre-season training schedule, Alaimalo plans to spend the Christmas holidays with his family in New Zealand before relocating to Sydney with his partner and two dogs early in the New Year.
Solomon Alaimalo’s New Zealand rugby career statistics:
Northland 2016-2017: 21 games, 6 tries.
Tasman 2018: 9 games, 4 tries.
Waikato 2019: 5 games, 3 tries.
Southland 2021-2022: 13 games, 4 tries.
Canterbury 2023: 9 games, 3 tries.
Chiefs 2017-2020, 2023: 48 games, 18 tries.
Highlanders 2021: 2 games.
Total 2016-2023: 107 games, 38 tries.
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