Ardie Savea has been appointed as the captain of Moana Pasifika for the upcoming 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. This leadership role comes after Savea’s transition from the Hurricanes, following his stint playing in Japan and his surprising move to the underdog team in July.
At 31 years old, Savea boasts extensive experience, having played 94 Tests for the All Blacks and first captained the New Zealand test team in 2021. In expressing his gratitude for the captaincy, Savea stated, “It’s pretty special and I believe it’s God’s purpose for me to lead.” He acknowledges the importance of personal accountability and emphasizes the need to set high standards both on and off the field, stating, “First and foremost, I’ve got to lead myself first.”
Recently, the team engaged in a bonding camp, which allowed Savea to connect with his new teammates, many of whom he had not met before. During this time, he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to learn from existing leaders in the squad, confirming that these connections are valuable as they prepare for the season ahead.
Head coach Tana Umaga praised Savea for his strong work ethic and ability to inspire others. Umaga noted, “He’s a natural leader who is going to have a massive impact on our team,” highlighting the qualities that make Savea an asset to the squad.
Looking forward, there is hope for Moana Pasifika to improve their performance after a challenging start in their first three seasons, where they managed just seven wins out of 42 matches. The team’s preparation and the strong leadership from Savea and Umaga provide a positive outlook as they aspire to turn their fortunes around in the 2025 season.
Overall, Savea’s appointment not only signifies a new chapter for him as a leader but also holds promise for Moana Pasifika as they work to cultivate teamwork, resilience, and success on the field. With dedication and camaraderie, fans can remain optimistic about the team’s potential to make strides in the upcoming season.
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