We are delighted to announce the appointment of Pauley Tolofua as our club captain for season 2024/25.

 

Hailing originally from Auckland, Pauley’s association with Salmo goes back 11 years to when he first graced the Kirwan Park turf.

 

A playing career that also took in a stint at NAAS RFC and playing time in the AIL has also seen Pauley selected for Leinster Juniors, the AIL Ireland Clubs side and the Irish Rugby League Clubs side.

 

His favourite rugby players include Jonah Lomu and Jerry Collins.

 

Outside of rugby, Pauley is a keen DIY-er and something of a BBQ connoisseur.

 

Commenting on his appointment, Pauley said: “Firstly, I’d like to thank James Nolan on behalf of the whole squad and myself for being a great captain and leader for us over the past season.

 

“I’m very grateful to be leading this group of men this season, it’s an absolute honour, and one I won’t be taking for granted.

 

“In terms of this year’s pre-season it’s been very tough, but will all be worth it at the business end of the season.

 

“On a personal level, I’ve always felt there was unfinished business with DLSP, especially as it was my first rugby club here in Ireland, so when I spoke with Norm and heard about the great things happening with this crop of men coming up from the age-grades, I had to come back and play a small part in helping them.”

 

Director of Rugby, Norman Byrne said: “I’m absolutely delighted for Pauley first and foremost, as I know how much of an honour this captaincy of the club is to him. I think he’d agree with me when I say that while he has played for other clubs over the course of his career, Salmo has a particularly special place in his heart.

 

“From a senior squad perspective, the coaching and management group and, most importantly, the players are already hugely impressed by the leadership and example Pauley has shown over the off-season and pre-season to date. He continues to be incredibly helpful to, and supportive of, all the younger and less-experienced players in the squad, as well as welcoming our new players into the group.

 

“Looking at it from a wider Salmo club viewpoint, I know Pauley is also looking forward to being a Club captain rather than just a senior squad one. He is always generous with his time both on the field when doing some work with our youth teams and off the field, where he has time and interest in chatting with anyone and everyone across the club spectrum.

 

“I’m really looking forward to working closely with Pauley through this season and I know that he will be a superb captain and ambassador for Salmo.”