Harlequins can today confirm that centre Paul Lasike will leave the Club next month for personal reasons.
Departing following four seasons at The Stoop, Harlequins has granted Lasike compassionate leave to be with his family in America.
The midfielder will depart the Club in late March following the culmination of the 2022 Six Nations tournament and remains available for selection.
Having first arrived in London in 2018 ahead of the 18/19 season from the Utah Warriors, Lasike has made 29 appearances in the Famous Quarters over the last four campaigns, claiming five tries in a career that saw the New Zealand-born centre become an immediate fan favourite.
A popular member of the playing group, the 20-times-capped USA international and former Chicago Bears NFL player is set to re-join the Warriors for a second stint in Utah.
Commenting on his departure, Lasike said: “It’s been an honour and a privilege to wear and represent the Harlequins jersey over the last four years. It’s been nothing short of a blessing for my family and I. To my teammates and brothers past and present, thank you! I’ll never forget the amazing experience playing and supporting alongside you all.
“To my coaches past and present, I’ve learned so much under your guidance, thank you for giving me the opportunity to play and for the support you’ve given my family and I. To the physios, strength and conditioning coaches, and player support team, thank you for keeping me in one piece and for supporting me physically and mentally during my time here.
“To the Quins fans, you guys are awesome. Thank you for rocking The Stoop every single time.”
Here are some of the jobs England's top players have away from rugby...
#1. JACK NOWELL - CLOTHES & PUB
The England and Exeter Chiefs winger is the co-owner of The Swordfish Inn back in his hometown of Cornwall. Sitting on the harbourfront, the pub has been a favourite of local fishermen, artists and visitors alike for as long as anyone cares to remember and is well-known for its rugged charm and atmosphere. He is also a director of .
The Carter & George practice clinic, which offers first-class physiotherapy and rehabilitation services, is the joint venture of George and experienced physiotherapist and best friend Rhys Carter.
#3. GEORGE KRUIS - FOURFIVECBD
It was from personal experiences with recovery from injuries that Kruis discovered cannabidiol (CBD) and from their positive reactions with the product he set up fourfivecbd – a range of balms, oils, gels and capsules that incorporates CBD. Their products are now sold in Next and on their website here.
#4.MARO ITOJE - PODCASTER
He launched the podcast series Pearl Conversations, which featured prominent Black role models. He is also a supporter of the educational charity The Black Curriculum, which is focused on introducing more Black British history into the UK curriculum.
#5. MANU TUILAGI - ALCOHOL
Making a Tuilagi Gin was often talked about in the early hours of the morning by the brothers after many gin and tonics. As there are fifteen players on the rugby pitch, they have added fifteen botanicals to their gin. Some of the botanicals they use in their recipe are; Juniper, Coriander, Orris, Sage, Thyme, Mac cloves, Lavender, Rose and Orange peel.
🇺🇸 We can confirm Paul Lasike will leave the Club next month to re-join his family in the USA.
He remains available for selection until the end of the Six Nations period.
Thank you for everything you've done in the Quarters, Paulie!
#COYQ