Moana Pasifika has announced the return of Fa’alogo Tana Umaga to the Super Rugby head coaching ranks. Umaga, the former All Blacks captain, has been unveiled as the new coach for Moana Pasifika, taking over from Aaron Mauger. He has signed a three-year contract spanning from 2024 to 2026.
Umaga previously coached Moana Pasifika in their debut match against the Māori All Blacks in 2020. Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, he stated, “Since its inception, Moana Pasifika has always held a special place for me, and I’m deeply honored to once again take up the role of head coach.”
La’auli Savae Sir Michael Jones, the chair of Moana Pasifika, expressed delight in appointing Tana Umaga as head coach. Highlighting Umaga’s significance as the first All Black captain of Pasifika descent and his extensive coaching experience at the international and Super Rugby levels, Jones emphasised that Umaga brings a wealth of experience and mana to the position. Additionally, Umaga’s current coaching role with Manu Samoa establishes direct connections to the Pacific home nations, aligning with Moana Pasifika’s ambition to provide high-performance pathways for players representing Pacific Island nations.
Jones further praised Umaga’s ability to mentor and develop players both on and off the field, considering it an invaluable asset for their program. He expressed great excitement for the future of Moana Pasifika under Umaga’s guidance and influence, stating that Umaga personifies the spirit of Moana Pasifika and its dreams and aspirations.
Born to Samoan parents and hailing from Wainuiomata, Umaga boasts an impressive rugby career. He made 122 Super Rugby appearances for the Hurricanes and earned 74 test caps for the All Blacks, captaining the team on 22 occasions.
Umaga’s coaching journey includes stints at Toulon in France, Counties Manukau, and the Blues, where he served as head coach from 2016 to 2018 before transitioning to an assistant coach role under Leon MacDonald. Since 2021, he has been involved with Manu Samoa as part of their coaching staff.