Manly cult hero Jorge Taufua has been granted an immediate release from the club in order to take up a contract in the Super League.
The man who became famous for his bone-rattling tackles which caught the attention of viewers around the world, departs after having spent a decade in Manly colours.
The 30-year-old, who was off-contract at the end of the season, has been released early from his deal with the 164-game veteran eager to continue his playing career in the UK.
“To be at this club almost 11 years is something I never thought was possible,” Taufua wrote in a statement.
“I am grateful for the countless memories and experiences with my brothers I went to battle with.
“Manly will always be with me.”
Des Hasler, who was Taufua’s coach throughout the majority of his time he spent at the club, paid tribute to the winger who notched 88 tries for the Sea Eagles.
“Jorge Taufua is a wonderful example of what a true clubman is,” he said.
“He has given the Sea Eagles tremendous service over a decade and is very much respected by not only his team-mates and coaching staff, but by all of his peers across the game.
“Jorge goes about his business in a quiet way and is a very humble man, but when it comes to sheer toughness and putting your body on the line for your team, he is right up there.”
Taufua has found it difficult to break back into Manly’s side in recent seasons, with Hasler instead preferring to blood Jason Saab and Christian Tuipulotu out on the wings.
However, his try-scoring feats and highlight reel tackles meant he remained a firm fan-favourite throughout his time at the club.
“He has scored some phenomenal tries and has pulled off some incredible bone rattling tackles that made him one of the most feared defenders in the game. And a YouTube sensation!” Manly’s Chairman Scott Penn said.
"He has been a much-loved player by our members for many years now and he leaves us with some great memories. We wish Jorge all the very best,” interim CEO Gary Wolman added.
