As someone who was inspired by a former Manu Samoa player at the age of ten, Des Sepulona Faoa has finally reached a milestone by being selected for the Manu Samoa squad this year.
“I am humbled and grateful for such an opportunity,” he said. “I have always watched and followed Uale Mai’s journey, and he is one of my role models in rugby. In fact, I want to be just like him. “I will be doing my very best to show how much I care for this through my training and how I play on the field.”
The 22-year-old from Tuanai, Vaipu’a, and Faleula was recently announced by the Manu Samoa 7s head coach, Muliagatele Brian Lima, to make his debut alongside Dan Patelesio last weekend in Vancouver. His first-ever match was a success, with Manu Samoa defeating Australia 37-7.
This marks another success story for Leulumoega Fou College and Tamauli because Des’ exceptional rugby skills caught the eye of national selectors through the school’s rugby team and Salelologa rugby club. His journey has surely made his parents, Sisavaii Faoa, and Sepulona Seaina Pula, proud.
In an exclusive interview with Samoa News Hub, Mr. Faoa said, “This is the beginning of a fruitful future for me. There’s no more time to waste on imagining things. The dream of representing Samoa through this sport has come true, and I am certain that the next ten years will be a success.”
Des was only 19 when he entered the Manu Samoa training squad in 2020. “I started playing rugby at Tuanai Primary school, then at Leulumoega Fou College until I was selected to play for the Ott Constructor Tama Uli in Salelologa in 2017. “Rugby has always been my passion, and I am always ready to perform to the best of my ability. I will make my family, village, and country proud.”
He has high hopes that his career will not only inspire the younger generation but also help him give back to his family. “It melts my heart to see the massive support I receive from my parents and my entire family. They are always there, praying for my journey to have a great ending. When I am down, knowing we are on the same page is what keeps me going. This isn’t about me; it’s a reflection of unity amongst our family and those who have supported me.”
Mr. Faoa acknowledged his Tama Uli club for equipping him with the right skills to tackle the difficulties of rugby.
Our national team is now in Los Angeles for another leg of the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series 2023-2024.
According to Des, God has been his Rock.
“As I embark on my new journey, one of the reasons I feel encouraged to overcome the challenges I face is the message from Philippians 4:13, which states, ‘I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.’”
