What was it like for you growing up in Otara?
Lived on Johnstones Road, attended Mayfield Primary, Bairds Intermediate, Hillary College. Solo parent raising x3 children, mum did the best she could. No issues growing up in Otara, made us strong, good survival skills for the future

Where did you start and where are you today?
Started at the Otara Scorpions Rugby League Club at the age of 7 years old, Coached by some wonderful ladies, Elaine Ropata, Girlie Kopua. Moved to Otahuhu Leopards when I was 13 years old, we still trained out of Otara, Hills Road Reserve, Coached By Barry Kopua
Left the leopards at the end of 1992, In 1993 signed a 2 year contract with the Canberra Raiders, 1994 won a premiership, stayed in Canberra for another 10 years, signed for the NZ Warriors in 2005, x3 seasons with them, retiring in 2008, 311 first grade games, played for the Kiwis 1994 - 2006, played 55 tests

What is your message for our future who aspire to be where you are today?
Never be limited due to where you grew up OR your circumstances, use that as your driving force to succeed

DREAM BIG, TRAIN UGLY, PLAY EASY, STAY HUMBLE, NEVER FORGET WHERE YOU CAME FROM

 

Article added: Friday 12 June 2020