Tito stays true to Blues
Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:03
The imposing figure of the red-haired Kiwi, Paul Tito, will once again be at the helm for the Cardiff Blues this season.
Tito was first appointed captain in August 2008, taking over from fellow New Zealander Xavier Rush, and has a wealth of captaincy experience, having previously captained Taranaki, The Hurricanes, New Zealand U21 and has also led the New Zealand Maoris to victory in the 2006 Churchill Cup.
"Paul has done an excellent job for us as squad captain over the last two seasons which have been very successful ones for the Blues," Blues director of rugby David Young said.
"Nobody should underestimate how much work goes into the role of captaincy not only on the pitch but more so off it.
"He has been a crucial link between the players and the rugby management and provides great input into the rugby matters.
"Paul has proved to be a great leader on the pitch and has the respect and
full backing of all the squad. He is also great ambassador off it, always professional when carrying out his duties with our stakeholders and members of the media.
"With the rugby season stretching even longer these days, and the introduction of two Italian teams into the Magners League, it's unrealistic to expect any player to start all matches and as last season we will be looking for a few of our senior players to deputise for Paul as team captain in a few matches this season."
Cardiff Blues squad captain, Paul Tito, said,
"Things are really looking up for us and it's an honour to be captaining the Blues again," he said.
"It can be a tough role sometimes but it's something I enjoy, we are fortunate at the Blues to have so many good experienced players that you can always rely on.
"Over the last few seasons we have concentrated on getting bigger and stronger; however this summer it's been more about fitness
as the ball is in play for longer these days.
"We've been pushing the trailers, pulling the sleds and competing at tug of war and also doing a lot more running, which should benefit us over the season."
Tito also believes that a bright future lies ahead for the Blues, with some promising talent rearing it's head.
"We've got a good blend of old fellows, such as myself, and also some exciting young players coming through," Tito explained.
"I'm particularly looking forward to seeing Scott Andrews, Lloyd Williams and Andries Pretorius, who really showed what they are capable of last season."
"They are the future of the Blues and will be paving the way when some of the old stagers move on."
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