As they prepare for their second season in Super Rugby Pacific, Moana Pasifika have announced one new signing, and four players upgrading to fulltime contracts in their squad for the 2023 campaign.
The most significant of those, is Samoan loose forward Miracle Fai'ilagi, signed after being identified at the World Rugby Pacific Combine held in Fiji.
The 23-year-old has represented Samoa in sevens, and is the only new player among the 39-strong Moana Pasifika squad for 2023.
Speaking on Tuesday, coach Aaron Mauger outlined the significance of Fai'ilagi's signing, and what it means for the team as it looks to establish itself as a Super Rugby entity.
"It's a big part of our narrative, to create a pathway that's tangible for our young aspiring rugby players from the Islands," Mauger said. "Whether that be Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands and our smaller nations as well.
"Miracle is the first example of that. How it came about was through the World Rugby Pacific combine, which myself and [assistant coach] were able to attend.
"He was a clear standout for us. [He] caught our eye early with how he held himself - not just on the field, but off the field as well. [There's] some real leadership qualities here.
"He knows how to work hard, how to push himself. We just felt he was ready for this opportunity based on what we saw.
"It's really exciting, now it's visible for our young aspiring players in the Islands."
While Fai'ilagi is the only completely new player, there are also four new contracted players from last season.
Prop Abraham Pole, first-five D'Angelo Leuila, lock Mahonri Ngakuru and loose forward Michael Curry have also all been elevated to fulltime contracts, after joining Moana Pasifika as replacement players in 2022.
Moana Pasifika squad: Abraham Pole, Alamanda Motuga, Alex McRobbie, Chris Apoua, Ezekiel Lindenmuth, Isi Tu'ungafasi, Jack Lam, Joe 'Apikotoa, Lotu Inisi, Luteru Tolai, Mahonri Ngakuru, Michael Curry, Mike McKee, Miracle Fai'ilagi, Penitoa Finau, Ray Niuia, Samiuela Moli, Samuel Slade, Sekope Kepu, Sione Tu'ipulotu, Solomone Funaki, Taukiha'amea Koloamatangi, Anzelo Tuitavuki, Christian Leali'ifano, D'Angelo Leuila, Danny Toala, Ereatara Enari, Fine Inisi, Henry Taefu, Jonathan Taumateine, Levi Aumua, Lincoln McClutchie, Lolagi Visinia, Manu Paea, Neria Foma'i, Tima Fainga'anuku, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Tomasi Alosio, William Havili
