Manu Samoa prop and well-respected Moana Pasifika leader, James Lay has announced his retirement from all professional rugby.
The 31-year-old established himself as a formidable and consistent player who led by his actions. His leadership inspired Moana Pasifika’s young forwards who are finding their feet on the professional stage.
Born in Moto’otua, Samoa and raised in the Far North of New Zealand, Lay knew from a young age that he wanted to don the blue and white of Manu Samoa. He achieved his dream, making his international debut in 2017 against the ‘Ikale Tahi. He also went on to play in two Rugby World Cups for Samoa in 2019 and 2023, making a total of 18 appearances.
Head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said: “Jimmy is an exceptional leader whose work ethic on and off the field helped shape our club, our team and our players for the better. Personally, I’ll miss our honest conversations on what’s the best way forward for our team, he was a huge help for us in that regard.
“We’re thankful for his long-lasting contributions to the Moana Pasifika movement and wish him well in this next chapter of his life. We have no doubt that he’ll make an impact wherever he goes.”
Lay was part of the Kings College First XV and burst onto the scene playing for Auckland in NPC in 2016, before also playing for Bay of Plenty and North Harbour.
Lay proved his versatility and powerful game playing for the Bristol Bears in England before returning to New Zealand and making his Super Rugby debut for the Blues in 2021.
In 2024, Lay signed with Moana Pasifika and was named captain for the Super Rugby Pacific season. Lay was unfortunately plagued by injury for much of the 2024 and 2025 seasons, but when he was on the field, his influence was felt. He was heavily involved in Moana Pasifika’s community initiatives and was always willing to give his time to fans.
Off the field Lay is a coffee connoisseur. He graduated from the Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing and Business Design.
Lay is proud of his Samoan heritage and Pacific excellence, and wants to use his experience to uplift Pasifika voices in whatever he does next.
ENDS
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