“A big drawing factor of joining Moana Pasifika is that hopefully I can represent Manu Samoa in the next couple of years and that is one goal I have set for myself” (Solomon Alaimalo).
Super Rugby Pacific kicks off this weekend for 2025, and for Moana Pasifika it’s a chance to improve on their previous seasons.
This time however the club will be relishing their chances of going big, running off the back of their huge signing of All Blacks superstar Ardie Savea.
The World Rugby Player of the Year for 2023, was also announced as captain for the club bringing a lot of attention to the team and what they can achieve this season.
Joining Savea in the list of new signings for Moana is former Chiefs winger Solomon Alaimalo who recently completed a season last year in the NRL for the West Tigers.
Alaimalo said that his return back to rugby is exciting and is hoping to do well with Moana Pasifika.
“I got a heads up around October last year that there was an opportunity and I am happy and grateful that it has come to fruition” Alaimalo said
“A big drawing factor of joining Moana Pasifika is that hopefully I can represent Manu Samoa in the next couple of years and that is one goal I have set for myself”
The 29 year old is no stranger to Super Rugby having spent four seasons with the Chiefs in the past.
But his move to Moana has been an eye opener for him in what he says has been a chance to connect with his pacific and Samoan culture.
“We went last year to Samoa with my partner for a couple of weeks and it was awesome to be there and experience it”
“Its a beautiful thing knowing I can represent my people on this team. One thing they (Moana Pasifika) do is start the day with a pese and loku. Being Pasifika, that is a huge part of our culture and for me it’s cool to be around”
Alaimalo and Moana Pasifika kick off their Super Rugby Pacific campaign this Saturday in Australia as they take on the Western Force in Perth.
“I hope the fans can get behind us this year like they have before” Alaimalo added
“Really looking forward to the season, and the boys are working hard and hopefully it translates onto the field”
