USA World Cup centre joins Sheffield

Sheffield have signed USA World Cup centre Lelauloto Tagaloa on a two-year deal.

Tagaloa, 26, played in the Tomahawks’ wins against Wales and the Cook Islands and most recently played for the Hawaii Chiefs side in the AMNRL.

Coach Mark Aston said: “I’m thrilled Loto has agreed to join us for the next two seasons.

“He’s a big, strong and fast centre and he is hungry to play at this level.”

“I spoke to Terry Matterson who coached the USA during the World Cup and he couldn’t speak highly enough of Loto.

“There is still a little bit of work to be done to get him where he needs to be but he’s focused and I can’t wait to get him over here and get him involved.”

Originally from Samoa, Tagaloa left his job, which involves climbing coconut trees and dancing with fire sticks as a Hawaiian dancer, to play the World Cup.

He said: “I’m really pleased to be joining the Eagles. I can’t wait to get over and get involved, I enjoyed my time in the UK during the World Cup and I’m excited to be coming to Sheffield.

“I’ve heard a lot about the club, beating Wigan in the Challenge Cup back in ‘98 and the recent Championship Grand Final wins. It’s a great club to be joining.”