Moana Pasifika’s Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa is making waves in his first Super Rugby season.
The 21-year-old loose forward, originally from Otago’s Kaikorai Rugby Club, debuted against the Western Force on 15 February. Since then, he’s logged over 500 minutes, scored five tries, and leads the competition with 124 carries.
Ta’eiloa remains focused on team success over personal accolades. “I’m pretty hard on myself, and I always look to improve,” he told RNZ Pacific. “Not quite happy with what I’m doing quite yet, but I’m content and I’m not disappointed where I am at.”
Facing top-tier opponents has been a rapid learning curve. “For me, it’s been really shocking,” he said. “Couple years ago, I [was] watching all these guys, looking up to them, hoping some day to be in their shoes, and then getting the chance to play across from them is honestly inspiring.”
Captain Ardie Savea’s leadership has been instrumental. “There’s a lot [that] Ardie has to [do to] help Moana Pasifika,” Ta’eiloa noted. “But I think the main thing for me is just how he how he talks the talk and walks the walk, and just how much of a leader he is.”
As Moana Pasifika aims for a top-six finish, Ta’eiloa emphasizes consistency. “We just need to trust in ourselves a bit more and just believe we can do it,” he said. “And just try and win little moments, I guess, like when things are not going our way.”
Ta’eiloa and his teammates continue to showcase their skills and to inspire the next generation of Pasifika players.
