Bristol Bears Sign 21-Year-Old Forward Totoa Auvaa
The Samoan back-five joins Bristol after being released by Saracens following two nightclub disputes this year.
By Kaito Sokolov ·
Bristol Bears have announced the addition of Totoa Auvaa to their roster. The 21-year-old forward arrives from Saracens, which released him earlier this season after a series of off-field incidents. For fans and staff at Ashton Gate, Auvaa represents a fresh chance to build a new career in the Championship.
Auvaa’s departure from London was triggered by a second nightclub altercation in six months. In June, he was involved in a physical dispute with England cricketers Gus Atkinson and Ben Stokes in St Albans. That incident followed a previous clash involving a punch-up that contributed to his release. Now, the powerful back-five forward is ready to start over in the West of England.
Director of rugby Pat Lam, a former Samoa captain, led the recruitment drive. Lam said Auvaa’s agent contacted him to ask if Bristol would offer a second chance. Lam described Auvaa as a large, physical young man with enormous potential who has struggled to adjust to life in a major city after coming from a small village in Samoa. Lam believes he can provide the mentorship and structure needed to help Auvaa succeed both on the pitch and as a person.
“I’ve always believed that young people deserve the opportunity to learn from those experiences, grow and become better people,” Lam said. He added that the club is confident it can guide Auvaa to become a valued member of the Bears family and someone his family in Samoa will be proud of.
Auvaa has experience leading teams, having captained Samoa at U20 and ‘A’ levels. However, his on-field record also includes moments of tension. During a loan spell at Ampthill in the Championship last season, he received two red cards for violent conduct against Hartpury. In one instance, he punched an opponent after a try was scored. In March, he kicked another player in the head during a ruck.
The Bears view these issues as part of a young player’s development process. The club is prepared to offer the guidance Auvaa needs to move past his earlier mistakes. With his contract now in place, Auvaa will join his new teammates as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The signing marks a new chapter for the Samoan international. He has left the high-profile environment of London for the Bristol Bears setup. The club’s leadership team is focused on integrating him into the squad and helping him utilize his physical abilities in a supportive environment.
