Former Rugby Australia chairman Hamish McLennan defended his controversial signing of Joseph Suaalii, believing the star's publicity value would outweigh his hefty $1.6 million-a-season contract. Though the speculation of a sell-out crowd for Suaalii's debut is unlikely, his presence has undeniably generated a buzz around the Waratahs. With increased media attention, membership sales, and search traffic, Suaalii's influence extends beyond the field. The article explores the 'Suaalii effect' on the Waratahs and the broader rugby community.
A week after he stood down as Rugby Australia chairman in late 2023, Hamish McLennan said he had no regrets about one of the apparent reasons behind his demise: signing Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii on an eye-watering $1.6 million-a-season, three-year deal.. “Before he pulls on a jumper he has generated over $50 million worth of publicity for rugby ... and the first time he plays for the Waratahs in front of a full house, he pays for himself. It’s a no-brainer.
Suaalii was, on Wednesday, named to make his debut for the Waratahs in their season opener against the Highlanders at Allianz Stadium on Friday night. Having recovered from a knee injury that kept him out of the trials, Suaalii was selected at fullback in a team that will also feature NSW debuts for Taniela Tupou, Rob Leota and Darby Lancaster, and the returns of Andrew Kellaway and Dave Porecki.
It has all helped generate a buzz about a Waratahs player – and a Super Rugby season – not seen since the early days of Israel Folau. The motivation of McLennan in poaching Suaalii was to find rugby a genuine poster boy; a star athlete with the talent to help win games, but also the profile to drive interest in rugby in weak markets, sell tickets and win the hearts of kids.
RUGBY JOSEPH SUAAILII WARATAHS SUPER RUGBY HAMISH MCLENNAN PUBLICITY MEMBERSHIP SALES
Australia Latest News, Australia Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii handed licence to thrill for Waratahs in Super Rugby PacificJoseph-Aukuso Suaalii has declared himself a certain starter for Super Rugby Pacific's first round and revealed he has been handed a licence to thrill for the NSW Waratahs in 2025.
Read more »
Suaalii expected to face Highlanders despite missing Waratahs trialThe Waratahs expect Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii to be fully fit to face the Highlanders in round one after the star recruit missed Saturday’s trial against the Brumbies in Bowral.
Read more »
Suaalii Misses Waratahs Debut Due to Knee InjuryJoseph-Aukuso Suaalii, the highly anticipated star recruit for the NSW Waratahs, was forced to sit out their final Super Rugby trial match against the Brumbies due to a minor knee injury. While disappointed, the team prioritized his health for his official Super Rugby debut in round one against the Highlanders. The injury may lead to a positional change for Suaalii, potentially from fullback to wing.
Read more »
‘It was kind of crazy’: Suaalii loving life outside the NRLJoseph-Aukuso Suaalii is being tested in different positions at the Waratahs, but is determined to become one of the club’s goal-kicking options.
Read more »
Burke: million-dollar man Suaalii better suited to midfieldRugby legend Matt Burke believes Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii's talents would be best utilized in the Waratahs' midfield, rather than at fullback where he is expected to debut this week. Burke argues that the 13 position allows Suaalii to be more involved in the game and utilize his strengths.
Read more »
Waratahs Seek Cohesion and Confidence Before Super Rugby StartThe New South Wales Waratahs are aiming to bounce back from last year's dismal campaign with a star-studded roster and a new coach, Dan McKellar. Their final trial against the Brumbies on Saturday will be a crucial test as they look to find cohesion and build momentum before their opening Super Rugby game against the Highlanders. The team features several Wallabies, including Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii making his debut at fullback. The Waratahs will hope to avoid the early-season setbacks that plagued them last year and establish a strong foundation for a successful campaign.
Read more »