Fa’asinomaga and footy: Maddie Feaunati honours her heritage while pursuing dream

Maddie Feaunati’s selection for the Red Roses at this year’s Rugby World Cup is more than just a sporting milestone; it represents a story of cultural resilience, legacy, purpose, and a determination to honour every part of her identity on the world stage.

As the only Pacific Islander named in England’s World Cup squad, the back rower takes it one day at a time - carrying with her the stories, traditions, and aspirations of her Sāmoan heritage, even while wearing the white jersey.

“Even though I was born in England, growing up in New Zealand helped me connect with who I am culturally,” she says during an interview on PMN’s Pacific Huddle.

“When we went back to New Zealand, I always felt quite disconnected from the culture I’m supposed to be a part of. But over the years, I’ve soaked it in and learned to embrace it.”

Her rugby journey reflects the richness and complexity of Pacific Diaspora identity. Raised in Wellington after her early childhood in the United Kingdom, Feaunati is one of four sisters in a sporty, Sāmoan family.

Her father, Isaac Feaunati, a former Manu Sāmoa and Bath player and a respected name in Wellington rugby circles, was both mentor and motivator when she decided to leave a successful netball career to pursue rugby full-time.

Feaunati says her decision to swap netball for rugby was a "crazy risk" but she knew it was meant to be. Photo/Exeter Chiefs

“It was a crazy risk,” Feaunati says. “But I didn’t even think twice about it, which is how I know it was meant to be.”

That decision took her across the world, eventually landing her a contract with Exeter Chiefs and, through persistence and patience, a place among the Red Roses.

Feaunati made her international debut in 2024 in a Six Nations match against Italy. Although she can play for New Zealand, Sāmoa and England, her childhood dream has always been to represent her country of birth.

Spot the Sāmoan on the back row of England's Red Roses squad. Photo/England Rugby

“I’ve always known I wanted to play for England. It’s the team I looked up to growing up. But honestly, I didn’t know how to get there. I just kept taking opportunities as they came.”

Despite her English roots, her Pacific heritage is always on her mind. With deep family ties to Sāmoa, Maddie says carrying that cultural identity in a space where few others look like her has become part of her purpose.

“Being the only Pacific Islander in the team is a bit different,” she says. “But I’ve learned not to put pressure on myself to catch up. I’m embracing my own journey, learning at my own pace, and sharing what I know, when I can.”

That mindset of being present - of fully committing to the moment - is something Feaunati values both on and off the pitch. Training, family time, and personal downtime - each gets her full focus.

“Balance isn’t about how you split your time. It’s about how much you give when you’re in it.”

Support from family, especially her father and her wider Pacific aiga, has been unwavering. Even friends from rival teams, including players from the Black Ferns, have backed her decision to follow her dream - a reminder of the shared solidarity among Pacific athletes, no matter the jersey.

Enjoying the ride to the Rugby World Cup. Photo/Exeter Chiefs

As England prepares to host the tournament for the second time, Feaunati is soaking up the moment.

“Being selected for a home World Cup is every player’s dream. It’s a huge honour, and I just want to be present, take each game as it comes, and enjoy the journey.”

When asked what she’d say to her younger self, she doesn’t hesitate. Just be fearless. Don’t listen to what other people say. Find your circle and enjoy the ride.”

With pride, poise, and a deep sense of purpose, Maddie is doing exactly that - representing her heritage on a global stage, and in doing so, making space for others to follow.

The Women’s Rugby World Cup is set for 22 August - 27 September in England, featuring 16 countries.

Listen to Maddie Feaunati's full interview below.