8 November 2013
Condolences to the family of Samoan Sports Association President Peter Fatialofa
The Samoan Sports Association wishes to extend our sincere condolences to the family at the passing of our President,
Papali’itele Peter Fatialofa (Fats).
Papali’itele was a member of the Samoan Sports Association Board since its inception in 1995, and Chairman since 2006.
Its annual Samoan Sports Awards, which began in 1997, have highlighted the incredible achievements of New Zealand-based
Samoans excelling in a range of sports.
Papali’itele’s legacy includes the instigation of the Samoan Sports Association Youth Scholarship Programme in 2003. The
Programme has awarded 135 junior sportsmen and women scholarships totaling more than $100,000, with a number of
recipients going on to represent New Zealand in rugby, swimming, softball, martial arts, touch and gymnastics.
Samoan Sports Association Board Member William Johnston says he and the board will miss him dearly.
“He was an amazing and generous man that touched and inspired so many lives, not only in New Zealand and Samoa, but
throughout the world,” says William.
“Fats made us proud to be Samoan.”
Papali’itele was a Samoan sporting legend, having captained Manu Samoa at its first ever Rugby World Cup in 1991,
leading the team to a stunning 16-13 victory against hosts Wales in Cardiff which shocked the rugby world. Manu Samoa
went on to reach the quarterfinals, repeating the feat four years later in South Africa when Fatialofa was co-captain.
Peter played club rugby for Ponsonby as well as 72 games for Auckland in the 1980s and early 90s. He was heavily
involved with Samoan rugby while maintaining his family owned moving business based in South Auckland and his tour
company in Samoa.
His passing comes after the loss of Board Member Tom Etuata in October 2012.
William and fellow board members Alf Filipaina, Clyde Young, Toesulu Brown and Repeka Lelaulu as well as Patron Toalepai
Lui Tautolo send their thoughts and prayers to Papali’itele’s wife Anne, their children and the entire Fatialofa family.
ENDS