Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

Art & Entertainment | Book Reviews | Education | Entertainment Video | Health | Lifestyle | Sport | Sport Video | Search

 

Condolences to family of Samoan Sports Association President

8 November 2013

Condolences to the family of Samoan Sports Association President Peter Fatialofa

The Samoan Sports Association wishes to extend our sincere condolences to the family at the passing of our President, Papali’itele Peter Fatialofa (Fats).

Papali’itele was a member of the Samoan Sports Association Board since its inception in 1995, and Chairman since 2006. Its annual Samoan Sports Awards, which began in 1997, have highlighted the incredible achievements of New Zealand-based Samoans excelling in a range of sports.

Papali’itele’s legacy includes the instigation of the Samoan Sports Association Youth Scholarship Programme in 2003. The Programme has awarded 135 junior sportsmen and women scholarships totaling more than $100,000, with a number of recipients going on to represent New Zealand in rugby, swimming, softball, martial arts, touch and gymnastics.

Samoan Sports Association Board Member William Johnston says he and the board will miss him dearly.

“He was an amazing and generous man that touched and inspired so many lives, not only in New Zealand and Samoa, but throughout the world,” says William.

“Fats made us proud to be Samoan.”

Papali’itele was a Samoan sporting legend, having captained Manu Samoa at its first ever Rugby World Cup in 1991, leading the team to a stunning 16-13 victory against hosts Wales in Cardiff which shocked the rugby world. Manu Samoa went on to reach the quarterfinals, repeating the feat four years later in South Africa when Fatialofa was co-captain. Peter played club rugby for Ponsonby as well as 72 games for Auckland in the 1980s and early 90s. He was heavily involved with Samoan rugby while maintaining his family owned moving business based in South Auckland and his tour company in Samoa.

His passing comes after the loss of Board Member Tom Etuata in October 2012.

William and fellow board members Alf Filipaina, Clyde Young, Toesulu Brown and Repeka Lelaulu as well as Patron Toalepai Lui Tautolo send their thoughts and prayers to Papali’itele’s wife Anne, their children and the entire Fatialofa family.

ENDS

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
Culture Headlines | Health Headlines | Education Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 

LATEST HEADLINES

  • CULTURE
  • HEALTH
  • EDUCATION
 
 
  • Wellington
  • Christchurch
  • Auckland
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.