Zaire Ugapo Joins Panthers Wrocław!

Zaire Ugapo Joins Panthers Wrocław!

27-year-old Zaire Ugapo, a native of South Auckland, New Zealand, has officially joined the Panthers Wrocław roster as a defensive end. He becomes the latest addition to the team competing in the European League of Football.

Zaire’s athletic journey began with rugby, but it was his father and uncle—both former American football players—who introduced him to the sport that would become his passion.

He launched his professional American football career in New Zealand in 2013, where he spent eight consecutive years playing for the Tamaki Lightning until 2021.

In 2022, Zaire made the move to Europe, joining the French team Catalan Grizzlies. That same season, he also played for the German side Potsdam Royals. His skills quickly caught the attention of scouts in the European League of Football, which led to stints with the Prague Lions in 2023 and the Hamburg Sea Devils last season. It's also worth noting his participation in the NFL International Combine in 2018, underscoring both his international aspirations and high level of athletic performance.

"I’m truly grateful and excited to be a new player for Panthers Wrocław. Thank you to General Manager Kuba Glogowski and Coach Craig Kuligowski for this opportunity! I can’t wait to meet my teammates and the Panthers fans. Let’s go Panthers!"
– Zaire Ugapo, new Panthers Wrocław player

We warmly welcome Zaire to Wrocław and wish him a successful season in Panthers Wrocław colors!