The Pasifika Medical Association sat down with rugby league star Leeson Au Mau as part of their new Father’s Day Series celebrating our Pacific dads.
As a duo international rugby league player (New Zealand and Samoa), playing over 200 NRL games and appearing in two Rugby League World Cup tournaments – NZ Warriors player, Leeson Ah Mau has enjoyed a level of success that very few professional athletes experience in their careers.
But the thirty-year-old says that despite all his sporting accolades and success, his proudest moment has been off the field when he became a father to his two children, Lilly-Rose (5 years) and Leeson Junior (1 year).
“My greatest achievement are my children. It’s everything I’ve ever wanted – to be a father. I get emotional thinking about it because I love being a dad”.
The Samoan sports star says that life as a professional athlete is not all fame and bright lights, as he is often away from home and so his wife Rose is taking care of the children.
“I struggle when I’m away. I am constantly on my Facetime with Rose and love talking with Lilly-Rose and LJ. But at the same time, it is rewarding because I know what I do on the field is putting a roof over their heads. This drives me to be the best I can at training and in games, so I provide for them and also set an example of how hard work and commitment leads to success”.
Leeson also acknowledges the importance of having strong wider family support and how this has given him reassurance and peace of mind to remain focused when he is away and playing in the toughest rugby league competition in the world.
“I’m really lucky because I have the support from both my wife and our families. They do a lot for us and I’m grateful because it makes my job easier when I am away”.
This Father’s Day, Leeson wants to encourage other dads to spend as much time as they can with their children because they grow up so fast and each moment with them is precious.
“My advice for other dads is that no matter how busy life may get, always find time for your family and enjoy every moment. I’m a firm believer that if you invest time in your kids, they will grow to be great people, who will succeed in whatever path they choose.”
Pasifika Medical Association Group
