Media Release - 23 December 2009

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union is pleased to announce the signing of 2009 All Black Lelia Masaga for 2010 and 2011.

Masaga, (23) made his All Blacks debut vs. Italy at Christchurch during the 2009 IVECO series.

Masaga has been a member of the Chiefs team since 2006 and has played 42 Super Rugby games. A great finisher, winger Masaga returns for his fifth Chiefs season in 2010.

Masaga stated “I am very excited about being involved with the Steamers. They are an exciting team and have a great environment that I am really looking forward to being a part of”.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union CEO Jeremy Curragh said “We are delighted to have signed a player of Lelia’s quality. To attract a player of Lelia’s caliber is fantastic and proves that the Bay can provide the right environment for players to make the All Blacks. We look forward to supporting Lelia in achieving his goal of again making the All Blacks”.

Masaga has scored 21 tries for the Chiefs and is now an experienced campaigner who brings flair and a deceptive turn of pace.

“Lelia is an excitement machine and brings the x-factor that we are sure our supporters will love to see. Not only is he going to make a strong contribution on the field, he has all the key characteristics that are so important to us off the field as we continue our work in the schools and community ” Curragh stated.

Masga will join the Union after the completion of his duties with the Chiefs.

For further information contact:

Jeremy Curragh
Chief Executive Officer
027 2555521

Sean Horan
Steamers Head Coach
029 201 4240