Ex-Celtic loosie now Super prop
Former Timaru Celtic loose forward Kalolo ‘Karlos’ Tuiloma has hit the rugby big time by signing with the Highlanders for 2018.
These days, however, Tuiloma props the scrum rather than hanging off the side but still makes a big impact.
And the big tighthead is delighted with the opportunity to join the southern franchise for his first taste of Super Rugby.
‘‘It’s awesome to be signed by the Highlanders. I just moved down to Dunedin and am sorting my accommodation, it’s exciting.’’
Tuiloma said the Highlanders showed an interest in him and flew him down for Aaron Smith’s 100th game.
‘‘I can’t wait to get going. I enjoy the challenge of taking on a new environment.’’
Rugby has been a rollercoaster ride for the 27-year-old but the Highlanders offers a new high. Born in Wellington, but raised in Auckland, Tuiloma originally played for Aorere College before completing his schooling at Timaru Boys’ High School in 2008 and played No.8 in the First XV.
He then disappeared back up north before following his brother, Mike, back to South Canterbury.
While his older brother played for Pleasant Point, the junior Tuiloma opted for Celtic in 2013, and some impressive form saw him in the South Canterbury Heartland team on the blindside.
He then tried unsuccessfully to break into the Canterbury NPC team. Away from rugby though he ballooned to a colossal 181kg.
However, after losing weight and winning three club premierships with Bombay, including their first in 50 years, he found himself in the Counties Manukau side.
Tuiloma arrived at the Steelers set-up at 151kg, but the daily training and conditioning has seen him drop to 142kg, while his skill level in the front row also improved dramatically.
‘‘At first it was hard, leaving my job to train but once I was fulltime (rugby) it got easier.’’
In October 2016, Tuiloma took up a seven month contract with French club side Grenoble, as a wildcard for injury cover.
‘‘I was pinching myself on the plane. I couldn’t believe it was happening until I flew over. It was unreal, a new country and a new club.
‘‘I was grateful for the opportunity, in fact all the opportunities I have had.’’
Back with the Steelers this year he made the Chiefs development side year, touring to Hong Kong, before getting the call to come back down south.
The Kiwi-born Samoan said his goals were simple.
‘‘I just want to keep improving and get as much game time as I can.’’
A tight head specialist Tuiloma can also play loose head if needed as cover. ‘‘I prefer tighthead but will do whatever they ask.’’
He will join another TBHS First XV graduate in the Highlanders front row, with Aki Seiuli getting regular time off the bench. Seiuli played for TBHS in 2008 at both prop and hooker.