The buzz around the community and beyond has been electrifying. A groundbreaking move by one of rugby’s finest has everyone talking. Ardie Savea, the All Blacks Vice-Captain and 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year, has signed with Moana Pasifika. This isn’t just any team; it’s a squad composed of players from Pacific Island nations and New Zealand or Australian-born players of Pasifika heritage, including those from Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. Savea’s commitment to this team extends through 2027.
Ardie Savea, with roots in the Samoan villages of Siumu, Luatuanu’u, and Falesiu Uta, takes pride in his heritage. For him, this signing is a meaningful way to honor his origins. Joining his brother and former All Black, Julian Savea, at Moana Pasifika makes this journey even more special.
“It will be huge to give back to my heritage and my culture in such a significant way. My brother Julian has told me that this team was made for us, so I can’t wait to get started,” Ardie shared.
“I DON’T FOLLOW TITLES, I FOLLOW COURAGE.”
-Ardie Savea
Respected both on and off the field, Ardie Savea has played 84 matches for the All Blacks, captaining them in the 2023 Rugby World Cup and in their historic 100th test against the Springboks in 2021. At just 30, he’s a trailblazer in rugby— known for his ferocity, athleticism, leadership, and wealth of experience.
This signing is a game changer. Young rugby players look up to Ardie, and his presence at Moana Pasifika will provide invaluable guidance and inspiration. But Ardie’s impact goes beyond the pitch. In a remarkable move, he insisted that the press conference for his signing include only Pacific media outlets and journalists. For those of us in Pacific media, this gesture was deeply moving. It underscored the importance of authentic storytelling and showed Ardie’s commitment to his people and culture. Representation matters— it’s about more than just a game. It’s about giving back to your community and inspiring future generations.
Ardie’s journey with Moana Pasifika is special. He’s not just a player; he’s a leader, taking up the mantle for his people and culture. His appearance on The Morning Shift Show to discuss this new chapter was nothing short of inspiring. “I don’t follow titles, I follow courage,” he said, emphasizing the importance of impacting and influencing others’ lives.If you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to catch Ardie’s exclusive interview and chat with The Morning Shift Show, where he talks more about this exciting move and more!
Ardie’s story is a beacon of hope and inspiration. His Instagram post announcing his move to Moana Pasifika included a scripture from Colossians 3:23-24 NLT: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” This journey is blessed, and the generations to come will be inspired by Ardie Savea, on and off the field.
