Cootamundra have welcomed back a familiar face with Aka Matapo signing with the club.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Matapo will line up for the Bulldogs for the first time since 2014 after joining Aaron Byrne in making the switch from the Cootamundra Tri-Colours.
The pair were part of the rugby union side's undefeated premiership and the Cootamundra co-coach is thrilled to have more experience on board for the season ahead.
"He's another experienced fella and another big body so it is kinda perfect for us this season," Byrne said.
Matapo first came to Group Nine in 2010, when he played two seasons with Junee before following Mark Elia to the Bulldogs.
He played in Cootamundra for three seasons before spending two at Temora.
He hasn't played Group Nine since 2017, with the Dragons, but Byrne is confident he can make an impact this season.
"He's a big body, has good aggression but is also quite skillful," Byrne said.
"Being another older head with such a young team every one of them counts.
"It gives me a bit of helping hand to have that bit of experience around."
Matapo is expected to line up in the second row for the Bulldogs.
There has been a real focus on adding new forwards to the club this season as they look to get themselves off the bottom of the ladder.
Caleb Tohovaka, and outside back Jordan Coleman, have already arrived with Andre Iro and James Strickland expected in the coming weeks.
With Matapo's Cook Islands background he expects it will help the latter adjust to life in Australia.
"It is pleasing someone like Aka does want to come back and help the club out," Byrne said. "I've got no doubt he had other offers, in league and rugby, but it was nice he choose us.
"He can also be a bit of a mentor for the two young Cook Island lads who are coming over being a Cook Islander himself."
Cootamundra usually trial against Camden and Thirlmere but due to the later start to the Group Nine season have had a change of tradition.
Instead they will tackle George Tooke club Crookwell on April 4 following the Group Nine pre-season nines at Junee on April 28.
The Bulldogs start their season against Young on April 19.
READ MORE
