The 2026 Group 16 Player of the Year is set to add coaching duties to his role in 2027.
Merimbula Pambula has appointed fullback Toroa Rapana or T to his team mates to lead the Bulldogs next season replacing Trent Casey, who will continue playing for the club.
The former Manly and Newtown player said he’s really look forward to the challenge.
“I’ve always wanted to coach one day and I really enjoy bringing confidence and developing young followers coming through the footy grades,” T said.
“That’s been my passion for a while and getting the opportunity to put it out there and show people that’s just yeah a blessing of being given,” he said.
New Merimbula Pambula Captain Coach Toroa Rapana says he can’t wait to start preparations for the 2027 Group 16 rugby league season.
The fullback appointed to the role for next season and takes over from club veteran Trent Casey.
T says Trent is very supportive of him taking on the job.
“I let him know and he just said good on you man,” T said.
“He just said it’s probably better for him just to let him play his game and let someone else do the thinking for him,” he said.
“Trent’s been a key player for the Bulldogs for many years now.
“Taking me back to that 2023 season when we won the grand final and we all stayed connected and I think that has brought a very good part of our friendship together.”
