Doug
Sanft With the Cornish Pirates squad close to completion
for the 2008-09 season, it was announced early in June, 2008, that Samoan international
fly-half Doug Sanft was a latest confirmed signing. Aged 29, the proven
goalkicker had played at a high level in New Zealand's NPC competition, and also
recently starred in Spain's Copa de SM El Rey final, scoring 21 points for CRC
Madrid in their 36-31 points victory against El Salvador. Born in Wellington,
Doug's family moved to Samoa when he was nine months old, but then returned to
New Zealand (Auckland) when he was 11. He attended the Marist Brothers
School in Apia, before completing his education at De La Salle College, Auckland.
He played at fly-half through the rugby grades, including three years in the college
1st XV, besides also participating in other rugby sports such as sevens, league,
touch and tag. Rugby has always been an interest, having followed his uncles
Peter and David Scuster who have also represented Samoa, and one, John Schuster,
who is a former All Black star. Doug's older brother Quintan, who is presently
a Development Officer and Coach at Scottish club Kirkcaldy, also represented NZ
Secondary Schools through the age groups and has played for Manu Samoa. Doug,
who was denied the chance to play for Samoa in last year's Rugby World Cup because
of a broken bone in his hand, is looking forward to joining the Pirates, commenting:
"This is a fresh challenge for me, and one which I'll give of my best
to achieve the goals of the club. I enjoy my rugby, and will enjoy this new experience." |
