Dynamic Moana Pasifika players Patrick Pellegrini and Tevita Ofa are gearing up for their Super Rugby debuts from the bench during an exciting home match against the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium on Friday. Pellegrini, a promising number 10 from Sydney, carries a unique blend of Tongan heritage from his mother and Italian roots from his father’s family in Brescia. The chance to play at this level has long been a dream for him, and he shared his enthusiasm during a recent team meeting.
“Being chosen for my first cap is unbelievable. It’s a dream come true to represent a team like Moana, which is close to my family and roots,” Pellegrini expressed, highlighting the significant support he receives from his family in Sydney and extended relatives in Auckland who plan to attend the match.
He attributes much of his growth as a player to Jackson Garden-Bachop, an experienced teammate who has served as a mentor during this crucial time. Tevita Ofa, named the 2024 Counties Manukau Steelers MVP, will also make his appearance in the lineup, stepping in as a substitute due to injuries affecting others.
The Moana Pasifika squad is undergoing some changes for this Cultural Round, with key additions like strong prop Sione Mafile’o, seasoned lock Tom Savage, and agile midfielder Danny Toala stepping into starting roles. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa is set for his second start and currently leads the league in carries, showcasing his impact on the game’s dynamics.
A significant highlight of this match is that it will be the first occasion Moana Pasifika dons their heritage jersey, paying homage to the legacy of the legendary Pacific Islanders team that faced the All Blacks in 2004.
This game comes in the wake of injuries to players such as Alamanda Motuga, Fine Inisi, and Julian Savea, which underlines the intense physicality of rugby but also emphasizes the importance of team resilience. The Moana Pasifika team’s depth and community spirit have become vital assets as they move through their season.
This home game not only marks a special milestone for the debuting players but also amplifies the connection with the broader community that Moana Pasifika represents, ushering in a hopeful and positive spirit as they proudly showcase their heritage on the rugby pitch.
Leave a comment