He’s been the enforcer and leader of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles pack for the last seven years.
And come Saturday, Martin Taupau will do it once more in his final home game for the Sea Eagles against Cronulla at 4 Pines Park.
A free agent for next season, Taupau has played 153 matches for the Sea Eagles in his 219 game NRL career since joining Manly in 2016 from the Wests Tigers.
Nick-named 'Kapow' for his strength and physicality, 32-year-old Taupau has been a great mentor to Manly props Taniela Paseka, Sean Keppie, and Toff Sipley, who have greatly benefited from his sheer professionalism and experience.
Taupau also formed a very strong front-row partnership over five years with former team-mate in current Warriors prop Addin Fonua-Blake.
A powerful runner with a great fend and offload, Taupau has featured in finals series with Manly in 2017, 2019, and 2021. He has scored 11 tries for Manly.
In the lead up to his 150th game recently for Manly, Taupau recalled how late Manly Immortal Bob Fulton was a major influence on his career at the Sea Eagles.
“When I think about Manly, there is only one person, it’s ‘Bozo’,’’ Taupau said.
“The whole reason I’m here is because of ‘Bozo’. I love him and respect him.
“I love this club because of ‘Bozo’.”
It would be somewhat fitting if Taupau could cross for one more try tomorrow in front of the Bob Fulton Stand.
