Warrior fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Clinton Toopi has signed on as a New Zealand Warrior for another two seasons. Toopi's contract would have expired at the end of this season, but Warriors management launched a pre-emptive stike offering him an additional two years early. They were well aware that if they didn't re-sign him fast and favourably there would be no shortage of clubs vying for his services later this year.

Clintons athletic ability and game-breaking skills have seen him rise meteorically to the forefront of NRL's centers. At one stage former Warrior Nigel Vagana stood head and shoulders above any Kiwi competition as the Kiwi-Centre-Supreme, but season after season Clinton closed the gap as he refined his skills. In 2002 Toopi equalled Vagana... last season he surpassed him.

Toopi is a double edged sword. He demonstrates an aggressively strong defensive game coupled with an even greater attacking game. Such multidimensional players are in great demand, but short supply. The Warriors however sport two such talents, namely Clinton Toopi and 5 tri-semi's record holder Francis Meli.

Clintons efforts this past year have earned him the respect of players and coaches alike. Even commentators have been in awe of his skill level, at times hailing him as the best centre in rugby league today bar none.

Posted 18th January, 2004

Clinton (Toops) Toopi