Jimmy Tupou is one of Counties Manukau Rugby’s favourite sons and in 2025 he gets the chance to captain his province – something that means a great deal to the local junior.
Tupou grew up in the heart of rural South Auckland, attending Pukekohe High School and Tuakau College, and went on to represent his beloved Patumahoe club after leaving school.
His career has taken him to different parts of the country and to Japan to play professionally but he has always called Counties Manukau home.
“Leading this team means a lot to me,” Tupou said. “This is my home, It’s the team I grew up wanting to play for and I have always felt a strong sense of pride and passion playing for Counties Manukau.”
Tupou understands the unique balance the Counties Manukau Union has within its midst – a fusion of culture and background that sets us apart from our rivals.
“I think our community play a big role and influence on us as a Union,” Tupou explained. “We are such a multi-cultural rich region, we are a mix of town and country, and I think that’s what makes us unique in that we cover so many different walks of life, cultural backgrounds and upbringings.”
Understanding that concept and combining that with the huge amount of mana Tupou possesses, makes him the obvious choice to lead the team in 2025.
Tupou is a natural leader, but he has also played under some pretty iconic figures in New Zealand Rugby and has picked up a few things along the way.
“I’ve been very fortunate over the years to have played with some special players and teams, so I’d say that I’ve probably taken a bit from various players and teams over the years,” he said.
“In terms of players it’s hard to go past Kieran Read. I really enjoyed the calmness he had about him as a captain and how clear and concise he was with his messages to the team.
“He was also a pretty special player too which made him the complete player in my eyes.”
And the mantra he lives by is simple.
“A few things that has helped me along my journey is - back yourself, stay humble, and do the work that’s required when no one is watching.”
