Moamoa standout returns to NZ for second season
In a tremendous display of talent and dedication, 22-year-old Tapili Tapili of the SSAB Moamoa Roosters Rugby Club is set to return to New Zealand’s Morrisville Rugby Club for a second consecutive season.
This opportunity comes after Tapili's remarkable performance last year. He made a name for himself as a player with skill and an exemplary attitude on and off the field.
Hailing from the village of Leulumoega, Tapili has become a pride for the children of his village and players of the SSAB Moamoa Roosters rugby club.
His return to Morrisville reflects his personal achievements and the aspirations of the Moamoa Roosters Rugby Club and the broader Samoan rugby community.
According to the management of Morrisville Rugby Club, Tapili's work ethic and discipline have set him apart from his peers.
"The potential he shows is immense," they stated. “He is one of the shining examples of what dedication can achieve. We’re thrilled to have him back for another season.”
President of the Moamoa Roosters Rugby Club, Aumua Ming Leung Wai, expressed immense pride in Tapili's accomplishments.
"This is the prime objective of our club," he said. "We want our players to secure contracts internationally, allowing them to support their families back home. Tapili, along with Theodore MacFarland, has set a wonderful precedent for the younger players in our club."
Tapili's contributions extend beyond the field. As coach Niu Alema Alema noted, he played a key role in the team’s historic victory in wrestling the Apia Rugby Union shield from Apia Maroons, a first for the Moamoa Roosters Club.
"His impact on the team has been invaluable," Alema shared. "He is not just a player; he is a leader who has shown his commitment to grassroots rugby programs within our club. He will certainly be missed."
Moamoa Roosters management and players are particularly thankful for the ongoing sponsorship and support from SSAB.
"Thank you, SSAB, for your unwavering support throughout the years," Alema said.
"It's your commitment that continues to open doors for our players."
Afioga Tofilau Fiti Leung Wai, CEO of SSAB, expressed the company’s dedication to nurturing talent within the youth of Samoa.
"Praise God that SSAB can support the Moamoa Roosters Rugby Club. We continue to support because we want our children to be blessed with opportunities that will elevate their lives and families”.