Rugby Southland lock in Alaimalo and Walsh for 2021 Stags roster

The 2021 SIT Zero Fees Southland Stags campaign is well underway with head coach Dale MacLeod in full recruitment mode with Stags forwards Charles Alaimalo and Joe Walsh back for another season.

Walsh, who first signed with Southland in 2016, is one of the longest standing players in this year’s squad, having played five seasons to date.

The 27-year-old prop is excited to continue to build on what was the strongest defensive record in the 2020 Mitre 10 Cup season.

Walsh is hoping to return to the field towards the end of the club season following an off-season shoulder operation. 

Joining Walsh is Woodlands teammate and two-season Stag Charles Alaimalo.

Charles, a flanker with the ability to play lock, is one of Southland’s most promising prospects.

Alaimalo will miss the Southland club season, having signed to play in the European Pro 14 competition with Zebre (Italy).

The 21-year-old’s commitment to Southland is pleasing to coach Dale MacLeod.

“Charles and Joe are both great assets to the squad. Joe was one of our hardest working front rowers so it's a shame he will miss club, but he's training hard off field and will be ready for the Stags season." 

"Charles' contract in Europe is massive for him, and he'll be facing the world’s best club sides such as Munster and Ospreys. He'll learn a lot as a player" says MacLeod.