Bio

Lock Emeka Atuanya graduated from Northampton Saints’ Academy to the senior squad ahead of the 2021/22 season.

Standing at 6’7” and weighing 116 kg, the towering lock began his rugby career at Northampton School for Boys and Northampton Old Scouts before joining Saints’ Academy system at age 16. 

In his maiden term, Atuanya was given a first run out in Black, Green and Gold in the Mobbs Memorial Match against the British Army, before earning full his senior debut the following season, as he came off the bench against Saracens in the Premiership Rugby Cup in October 2022. 

A series of injuries delayed the lock’s progress in Saints colours, though Atuanya enjoyed several matches at Northampton’s partner club Bedford Blues in the Championship.

The lock’s desire to improve, coupled with his contributions away from the pitch and in Saints’ training sessions, earned him a nomination for the 2023/24 Coaches’ Player of the Season award – before a contract renewal followed in May 2024.