The first thing that strikes you about Pauli Pauli is his sheer size.
Measuring 193cms and weighing a whopping 120 kilograms, the newly signed Newcastle Knight is a formidable addition to the Knights' pack.
In what’s a stark contrast to his immense mass, Pauli’s humble and softly spoken nature seems at odds with the strength and intensity he showed on field during Saturday’s trial match in Orange.
The former Parramatta Eel believes the match against the Canberra Raiders was a defining moment for him as it signified a new chapter in his career.
“I found it a bit bittersweet moving from another club and having my first game for the Knights. But it’s worked out for me and is good to be out there with the boys,” he told Knights TV.
“It was a good joy being out there, hopefully I can build a relationship with the boys out on the field and that will help my game.”
While head coach Nathan Brown heaped praise on the Bankstown-born forward for making a strong impression in his first contest as a Newcastle Knight, a modest Pauli admits he finds it difficult to talk about himself or his performances.
“I will let the fans decide that, I don’t really talk about myself. My actions lead by example,” he said when asked if his dominating runs during the weekend’s trial are a sign of what’s to come from him in 2016.
“It’s a good lead up to Round 1 and me trying to find a spot.
“There were good comments and a good build up which is positive for me to learn how to be better for the team.”
The 21-year-old is pleased to have already created bonds with his new teammates and says he’s begun to feel at home in Newcastle.
“I’ve settled in pretty well and the boys have made me feel comfortable. It’s been very positive and good to see the other guys try to help me fit in,” he said.
“I have moved up here, now I’m just a local here which is good.”
