Wests Tigers Explore Signing Manase Fainu Post-Incarceration
Wests Tigers consider signing jailed hooker Manase Fainu
Image: The Sydney Morning Herald
Wests Tigers are contemplating signing Manase Fainu, a former NRL hooker, upon his release from jail, potentially marking a remarkable comeback. Fainu, jailed for stabbing a youth leader in 2019, is eligible for parole in October. The Tigers' interest is partly to retain his brother, Samuela, who is a key player for the team.
- 01Manase Fainu is eligible for parole in October after serving time for stabbing a Mormon youth leader.
- 02Wests Tigers are considering a train-and-trial contract for Fainu to facilitate his return to rugby league.
- 03The club's interest in Fainu is influenced by the desire to extend his brother Samuela's contract.
- 04Fainu's mentor, Mario Tartak, expressed confidence in Fainu's determination to return to the NRL.
- 05The last instance of a player returning to the NRL after jail was Russell Packer, who faced similar circumstances.
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Wests Tigers are reportedly considering offering a lifeline to Manase Fainu, a former NRL hooker, as he becomes eligible for parole in October after serving time for stabbing a youth leader in 2019. Fainu has been incarcerated since December 2022 and has not played since 2019. The Tigers are motivated by the potential to keep his brother, Samuela Fainu, who is a significant player for the team and becomes a free agent on November 1. Discussions are ongoing about how to reintegrate Manase into the rugby league community, possibly through a train-and-trial contract. His mentor, Mario Tartak, has stated that Fainu is eager to return to the sport, emphasizing the importance of second chances. However, any signing would require approval from the Tigers' board and the NRL, which must deem him a 'fit and proper person.' The last player to return to the NRL after jail was Russell Packer, highlighting the challenges and precedents involved in such cases.
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The potential signing of Manase Fainu could significantly affect team dynamics and player contracts within the Wests Tigers.
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