Moana Pasifika is pleased to announce the signing of Wellington Lions winger Pepesana Patafilo through to 2025. After making his Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes in 2021 and moving south to the title-winning Crusaders for the 2023 season, Patafilo has found his new home with Moana Pasifika. Hailing from the villages of Magiagi and Vailima, he is relishing in the opportunity to represent his Samoan heritage.
“I’m looking forward to joining Moana Pasifika” says Pepesana. “I can’t wait to represent my family and culture and I’m grateful to be given an opportunity to express myself and what I have learnt on my journey so far.”
Patafilo’s highly anticipated Super Rugby debut came in 2021, running on to Sky Stadium for the Hurricanes in a Round 10 clash against the Highlanders. Having also made five appearances for the Crusaders this year, he is gearing up for a keenly awaited season with Moana Pasifika under new Head Coach Tana Umaga.
With the ability to play multiple positions, Patafilo made his professional rugby debut in the Bunnings NPC, getting his first opportunity for Waikato in 2018. The following year, Patafilo returned home to Wellington and has since flourished in the black and yellow jersey. The 27-year-old has laid claim to the Wellington number 11 jersey for the last four seasons. He played a major role in the Lion’s 2022 Bunnings NPC winning team that also secured the Ranfurly Shield after a 13-year drought.
With explosive X-factor talent on the wing and with the skillset to drop into a playmaking role, Patafilo’s elite versatility is a major factor as to why he’s closing in on 50 appearances for the Lions.
The former Samoa Under 20s representative has been exciting to watch during the current provincial rugby season says Moana Pasifika Chief Executive Officer Pelenato Sakalia.
“We are thrilled to be able to provide Pepesana with another opportunity to express his skillset in the Super Rugby Pacific Competition and we’re excited to welcome a player with his experience to our ‘āiga.”
Welcome, Pepesana.
ENDS
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