The Olympics represent a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a dream come true for many athletes around the world. For Tom Maiava, that dream became a reality when he represented the Manu Samoa 7s team at the 2024 Paris Olympics. “How can a small-town kid like me be playing on a big stage like this? This was a real ‘I made it’ moment,” Tom reflected during our conversation.
We had the privilege of sitting down with Tom, one of the trailblazing players who helped the Manu Samoa 7s team make history as the first Samoan team to qualify for the Olympics. This monumental achievement is a source of vast pride, not only for the team but for the entire Samoan community. To be part of such a historic moment is no small feat, and the significance of this accomplishment resonates deeply with those who share in their joy!
“how can a small town kid like me be playing on a big stage like this. this was a real ‘i made it’ moment.”
– Tom Maiava
Tom, a 25-year-old Samoan, was born in West Auckland and currently calls Porirua, Wellington, home. His roots trace back to the beautiful villages of Sinamoga through his mother and Sala’ilua, Salafai through his father. His rugby journey began at the tender age of 10, and he has always played in Wellington. However, in 2021, he took a leap of faith and moved to Hamilton, New Zealand, in pursuit of a spot on one of the rugby teams there. Though he didn’t make the cut, Tom’s determination never wavered. This was the beginning of a journey that would take him to new heights.
After a year in Hamilton, Tom moved to Sydney, Australia, where he played two seasons. Unfortunately, during his second season, he suffered a devastating injury, tearing his ACL, UCL, and PCL. This setback sidelined him for a year, but Tom views it as a blessing in disguise. The injury, he said, was something he needed—not just for rugby but for life in general. It was during this challenging time that he and his partner embraced the adversity, proving to themselves that they could persevere together.
In July 2023, Tom made his return to the rugby field, playing his first club game after recovery. Despite playing six or seven games, he felt he wasn’t getting enough game time. Taking another leap of faith, he reached out to the Manu Samoa 7s coach, expressing his desire for more opportunities. The coach didn’t make any promises but invited Tom to participate in a local tournament. By September 2023, Tom had officially joined the Manu Samoa 7s squad, marking the start of an incredible journey. His story is a testament to the power of taking chances and believing in oneself.
Tom’s hard work and dedication paid off when he made his debut with the Manu Samoa 7s team in February 2024 in Perth. From there, his journey culminated in the dream of playing on the grand stage of the Paris Olympics.
“To be one of the 14 chosen to carry the Samoan flag on the highest pedestal is a huge honor, and it’s still sinking in
he shared. Representing Samoa on a global stage like the Olympics meant everything to him. He recalled long road runs, dreaming of moments like these long before he was on the team. For Tom, representing his beloved Samoa at the Olympics is one of his greatest achievements.
The experience of playing in front of 70,000+ spectators was surreal for Tom. He vividly remembers looking around the stadium and thinking, “Is this a dream?” It was a humbling and deeply personal moment for him. A standout memory from this journey was not only becoming an Olympian with his teammates but also sharing the unique island spirit with fellow Pacific Island athletes. The camaraderie among the Pacific nations, waking up to the sounds of Fijians singing and worshiping in the Olympic Village, left a lasting impression on him. He expressed pride in showcasing the uniqueness of the Pacific Islands to the world, both on and off the field.
Above all, Tom gives his thanks to the Lord, who has been instrumental in his life. He believes that his achievements are a blessing from God and that everything he has is because of Him. For Tom, walking the good walk, praying every day, and living by the book are what guide him both on and off the field. He wants to be known not just as a rugby player but as a man of God. “It’s all God, not me,” he humbly states.
Tom Maiava’s journey from a small town to the grand stage of the Olympics is a story of faith, perseverance, and the power of self-belief. His path serves as an inspiration, reminding us all that with hard work and faith, dreams can indeed come true. O ou māmā na!
