TOAFOFOA SIPLEY may do a lot of talking off the field, but he wants to be all about action on it.
The Kiwi prop is settling into life at Warrington Wolves after making the move from Manly Sea Eagles on a two-year contract.
It’s not just experience that Sipley, who made 97 Manly appearances over eight seasons in addition to two NRL games with New Zealand Warriors, is attempting to bring to Warrington.
He’s wasted no time in also sharing an enthusiasm that may be much needed as the Wolves bid to bounce back from a very disappointing season in which they finished eighth.
“That’s just me, I like to think I’m a very bubbly person,” said Sipley, who has Samoan and Niuean descent and represented the latter – Niue, like the Cook Islands, is self-governing territory within the realm of New Zealand – once in 2018.
“I have this theory – if you’re talking, you’re breathing. If you’re not talking, you’re not breathing. I’m pretty loud, as everyone will learn over the next few years.”
He has already made it loud and clear to his new colleagues why he has come to the UK.
“It’s success. I shared that with the team when I did my introduction,” said Sipley.
“Being 30, I want to look back at my career and walk away with something. It’s pretty bold to say a Premiership, but that’s always the goal.”
Due to a suspension following the penultimate round of the NRL campaign, Sipley will miss Warrington’s first three matches, although some can be served in pre-season.
Although he’ll have to wait a little longer than he’d like, he is determined to play his part.
“You’ve got to lead with your actions. That’s what I’ve known over a ten-year NRL playing career,” Sipley added.
“I say I want to walk out with success but it’s (about) actions. I want to show what I can do and add a bit of value to this pack.
“That’s by making sure I get a good pre-season under my belt and set myself up for a good 2026.”
The Wolves will kick off 2026 with a pre-season clash against local rivals Widnes Vikings on Friday 9 January, 7.30pm, at The Halliwell Jones Stadium.