Team of the Year 2023: Second Row
Congratulations to Sonny Tupuola of the Belconnen United Sharks for his selection at second row in the 2023 Canberra Raiders Cup Team of the Year.
Tupuola found form in a new position in 2023, playing as an edge forward instead of his usual spot in the front row.
Sonny proved to be a handful on the edge, busting through tackles and making plenty of ground with every hit up.
Playing off the hip of a quality half in Matt Woolnough added to his impact, as the big second rower was put into space or simply caused damage off early ball.
Tupuola scored five tries in 15 games, one of those proving pivotal which came in round 16 when he sealed the game 20-14 against Woden in the dying minutes to secure his side a spot in the top four.
Sonny has been a beloved player of the Belconnen United club since 2015, playing an important part in the Sharks' journey to playing finals footy for the first time in a decade.
Team of the Year 2023
1. Ryan McQueen (West Belconnen Warriors)
2. Brandon Withers (West Belconnen Warriors)
3. Harry Quinlan (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
4. Steven Numambo (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
5. Jack Davison (Tuggeranong Bushrangers)
6. Matthew Woolnough (Belconnen United Sharks)
7. Sam Williams (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
8. Zac Saddler (Tuggeranong Bushrangers)
9. Mitch Souter (Woden Valley Rams)
10. Aidan Woods (Queanbeyan Kangaroos)
11. Sonny Tupuola (Belconnen United Sharks)
