Popular Samoan and New Zealand rugby identity Peter Fatialofa has died suddenly this morning aged 54. Reports say Fatialofa was taken ill suddenly, before passing away. Fatialofa was an amazing player on the field, and a gentleman off. He treated all he played against with respect. Fats was active in charity work and support activities, and was rarely seen without a smile on his face.
The Waikato Chiefs, and All Blacks have all taken to social media to express their sympathy to the family of Fatialofa, as have many fans around the world of this gentle giant.
Fatialofa played for Manu Samoa between 1988 and 1996, making 34 test appearances. He played two World Cups, including captaining Samoa at the 1991 tournament where they made a huge impact. Fatialofa was also heavily involved in the development of the Manu Samoa squad, and Samoan rugby in general.
Fatialofa was proud of his Samoan heritage and served as a great role model in his community, working extensively with young people to encourage their development in Rugby.
In New Zealand Fatialofa was a stalwart of the Ponsonby club. He played 72 games for Auckland and was part of their stunning Ranfurly Shield reign from 1985 to 1993.
The burly prop was often the custodian of the Log o’ Wood and became a cult figure with his strength honed from working his furniture removal business with shifting pianos a specialty.
Fatialofa was a made a Member of the New Zealand Order of merit in 1996 for his services to rugby.
He will be sadly missed by all in the rugby community, the rugby world has lost a great man, a great player and a great ambassador.
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