From obedience to opportunity: Manu Sina captain champions Sāmoa women’s rugby

In Pacific culture, honouring parents and elders is a deeply rooted tradition that often means personal aspirations, like pursuing sports, are set aside out of respect for their well-being.

While honouring her roots, Manu Sina captain Masuisuimatamaalii Tauaua-Pauaraisa is using her background as a springboard to defy generational norms and advocate for the next wave of Pacific sporting talent.

Born and raised in Sāmoa, Tauaua-Pauraraisa says her childhood revolved around school, church, and chores.

But, as the captain of Manu Sina, she is determined not to let the lack of opportunity in her youth affect the environment she is creating for her children and future generations.

With both of Tauaua-Pauaraisa’s daughters now playing rugby, her role as captain exemplifies her commitment to providing a platform for the future.

“My time back then, the parents never let the girls play. And now it’s growing, and they see there is a future within the sport itself. Not just Rugby, but any sport. I want to be that role model for them, not only for them, but I see potential in all our young players coming through,” she says.

Manusina Rugby team. Photo/Manusina XV/Facebook

While her youngest daughter’s participation in Manu Sina’s training sessions ignites hope for the future, Tauaua-Paraisa says there is still progress to be made to advance the game.

Having trained together for just shy of two weeks, compared to other countries, Tauaua-Paraisa understands that her team face disadvantages in some areas. But this does not dampen their eagerness to compete.

While they have already achieved their goal of qualifying for the World Cup, she shared with Pacific Huddle that their focus is on performing at their best.

“So we’re not going to participate, but we’re going to compete. That’s what we want.

“The only advantage these teams have, like Australia, is they have been playing so many matches leading up to the World Cup,” she says.

As the last competition Manu Sina played was the 2024 Oceania Championship, Tauaua-Paraisa is calling on fans in the community to rally behind the team.

“We need your support, we need your prayers, and we just need everyone to back us. We haven’t been on the world stage since 2014. This is an exciting time for us,” she says.

The Women’s Rugby World Cup is set for 22 August - 27 September in England, featuring 16 countries. Manu Sina is in Pool A, and their opening match will be against Australia on Saturday, 23 August at 11pm, New Zealand Time.