USA INTERNATIONAL Joe Taufete’e admitted signing a permanent contract with Warriors was ‘unreal’ and has allowed him to ‘chase the dream’.
Having initially joined the club on a short-term deal in December, the giant hooker has made six appearances for the Sixways side – which included his maiden try against Harlequins in January – before signing an extension last week.
The former American football player made the switch to Rugby Union in 2011 and enjoyed stints at Belmont Shore RFC in California and Otorohanga RFC in New Zealand, before earning a professional contract at USA PRO Rugby’s San Diego Breakers.
The Vallejo-born hooker made his international debut for the USA against South Africa at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, before going on to make nine appearances for the Eagles, while crossing the whitewash three times.
The 24-year-old insisted he was always confident of his potential upon arriving at Warriors and believes Worcester is the best place for him to develop as a player.
“I’m excited to extend my deal into next season. When I came over it was just about getting my foot in the door. I knew I had to play and get the chance to show what I could do,” said the Californian.
“When the deal was put on the table, I had to take a step back as I was shocked. It’s incredible to be given the chance to chase the dream. In terms of my development, this is where I need to be.
“It was a bit of a culture shock when I first arrived as it was very different to the rugby I played back home in the States. It’s not as developed in America. They don’t have the training facilities like here and the help with nutrition.
“There is huge physical demand as well. It’s a full on 80 minutes, not the stop-start I was used to in American football. You have to be fully fit and keep in top shape.
“But I knew the potential I had to offer and I can’t thank Warriors enough for giving me the chance to play. I feel blessed to get this opportunity and now I’ve just got to keep putting in the work one game at a time.
“I’ve invested my emotion in the club and see myself as part of the team now. It’s all a bit unreal,” he added.