He enjoyed some decent stints in the NRL with the Parramatta Eels and the Newcastle Knights and since his move to France, Zeb Taia’s game has gone to another level.
So much so, that the Catalan Dragons have opted to re-sign the veteran back-rower for a further three seasons.
Having arrived at the club ahead of the 2013 season, the former New Zealand international has 22 tries in 52 games and is happy to remain in France.
“My family and I love the life here, we are happy in France,” said Taia.
“I’m happy with the club and the staff.â€
“Hopefully we can win a trophy in the next couple of years.â€
“We have a good young team and I believe in the young players at the club, especially the ones coming through the U19 system.â€
He has been in some red-hot form, illustrated by his winning the club’s Player of the Year award for 2014. Additionally, he played every single game – all 30 – over the course of the season.
The decision was an easy one for the club with club CEO Christophe Jouffret pleased to have the veteran on board, a player he knows is blessed with the ability to play rugby league.
“Zeb has been voted Player of the year by the staff last year,” said Jouffret.
“He became a key player in the squad.â€
“He played the whole 30 games last season, and always at his best level.â€
“He is a great player with great qualities, both on and off the field.â€
“His contract was running until the end of 2015 season but we felt it was important to secure the Cook-Island captain signature for the long term.
Read more at http://www.superleague.co.uk/article/31451/taia-rewarded-with-new-3#guQ4stui6gVbdfkd.99