Moana Pasifika is pleased to announce the signing of Manu Samoa duo Melani Matavao and Tuna Tuitama for 2025 and 2026.
Their determination and talent has positively influenced the local rugby scene in Samoa and continues to inspire the next generation.
Both played provincially in Samoa’s PPS Super 9 Competition, starring for the Aana Chiefs.
Matavao made his Super Rugby Pacific debut for Moana Pasifika in Round 3 of the 2024 season against the Gallagher Chiefs, impressing with his playmaking skills, speed and versatility.
The halfback hails from the villages of Fasito’o Uta and Lauli’i. Matavao played for Samoa at the 2022 Rugby World Cup Sevens in Cape Town. He was also part of Samoa’s 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup teams.
Matavao said he’s looking forward to returning to the club.
“Continuing my journey with Moana Pasifika makes me extremely proud and grateful to represent my family as well as our Pasifika people,” said Matavao.
“The fellowship that us Usos and Pasifika brothers share, and the unity that we share through our Pasifika culture is one of the reasons why I wanted to come back.”
“In 2025 I hope to make it to the quarterfinals with Moana Pasifika and I hope that I personally make a positive contribution to the team on and off the field.”
Tuitama hails from the villages of Mulifanua & Faleasiu. The 24-year-old has made his mark on the Sevens stage with Samoa, showcasing his dazzling footwork, physicality and pace.
He’s played 56 matches in his Sevens career, scoring 30 tries and amassing 150 points.
The back is also set to make his debut in Samoa’s 15-man side in the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup.
Tuitama hopes to make a meaningful impact with Moana Pasifika, sharing his aspirations with us in both Gagana Samoa and in English.
“Ou te faatauaina lou auai ile Moana Pasifika mo le atinaeina ole taleni, faaauauina ole sini ia avea ma se tama taaalo polofesa, pueina mai le tomai mai nisi o uso tama taaalo pei o Julian ma Ardie Savea which will shape me into the player I aim to be.”
“It’s important for me to continue my journey with Moana Pasifika for the development of my rugby talent. Develop as a professional player as I learn from other players such as Julian and Ardie Savea that will help shape me into the player I aim to be,” said Tuitama.
“Ole Moana Pasifika, o se au e fa’ataua le aganu’u, o sesi itu na ua ou fia auai ai a ile Malaga ale Moana Pasifika. O a’u o Le tama Samoa, ma e teu i lo’u loto lo’u atunu’u ma lo’u fa’asinomana. E fia fai la’u galuega e fa’aali atu ai i nisi o lo’o aumau i Samoa, o latou taumafai ma tinoū I avagoa Le aumaua male taleni foa’i, e mafai fo’i ona fa’ataunu’u miti po’o manaoga e avea latou ma tama latapi polofesa. Vi’ia Le Ali’i!”
“Moana Pasifika celebrates culture which is the main reason I want to be a part of their journey. I am a proud Samoan that wishes to make his mark in the sport and inspire/empower local players. To exemplify that if we have the opportunity and we invest and work hard on our dreams, they will come true. Praise God!”
Head Coach of Moana Pasifika, Fa’alogo Tana Umaga said: “Melani and Tuna are an example of what you can achieve through hard work and dedication.“
“Coming through the local Samoan rugby system, going off-island and sacrificing time with family to pursue the dream of playing rugby for a job. Playing internationally and making it to Super Rugby. That’s what we envision for the rising talent in the Pacific while also showcasing how difficult it is.”
ENDS
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