Sam Tuitupou

Sam Tuitupou is a recently retired rugby union centre who was famed for his ferocious tackling – so much so it earned him the nickname ‘Hacksaw Sam’. A popular player nonetheless he earned legions of supporters at both club and country level, thanks to his tough and determined performances as well as his affable nature and infectious smile.

Born in Auckland, New Zealand in February 1982, Sam Tuitupou enjoyed a long career representing various clubs in his homeland and in England and Ireland. He started his senior career in 2002 with provincial side Auckland and the Blues in what was the Super 12 and Super 14. Collectively he made over 100 appearances for these two teams and in the process earned two Air New Zealand Cups.

As well as briefly playing for Hamilton-based Chiefs in 2006, he left New Zealand in 2007 and signed for English Premiership side Worcester Warriors. In his first season he helped his new team reach the final of the European Challenge Cup. Sam Tuitupou would remain at Sixways until his contract ended in June 2010. He then moved to Irish provincial team Munster and spent just one season there, but his tough tackling made him a fan favourite and it is where he earned his illustrious nickname.