Ealing Trailfinders sign 138kg cousin of the Vunipolas

Ealing Trailfinders have confirmed the next two members of the Trailfinders Rugby Academy with Brunel University London – and one of them is a 138kg cousin of the Vunipolas.

According to the club website, Sione Funaki and Harrison Obatoyinbo have arrived and have gone “straight into training alongside the first-team squad as they begin their journey with the club”.

Harrison Obatoyinbo joins from Saracens Under 18s where his brother Elliott was also part of the Academy, and the full-back will bring plenty of excitement to the back-line. He attended Harrow for his school and sixth form studies, and also played for their first team during that time.

Sione Funaki is another addition to the back-row which boasts significant depth, and the Tongan who is the cousin of the Vunipola brothers joins from the Exeter Chiefs Academy. He attended Sixth Form at Shebbear College, and represented Somerset at Under 16 and 18 age groups.

Brunel Head of Rugby Gareth Rise says these new arrivals are another statement of intent for the ever-growing programme.

“Harrison has fantastic footwork and ability on the ball. Both Saracens and Harrow spoke very highly of him as a player and a person.

“Sione brings a huge physical presence at 138kg and we are very excited about where he can get to.”

Source: Ealing Trailfinders