One of Samoa’s young sons has certainly left a deep impression on all who have watched him on the field. Miracle Faiilagi is a success story born from blood, sweat and sacrifice right out of his country Samoa.

He attributes his success to his loving mother and late father. Faiilagi received the Rookie of the Year award at the recently held Moana Pasifika Awards night with his stellar performance in Super Rugby Pacific.

The Samoan-born talent scored five tries in his debut season and set stadiums alight in New Zealand, Australia and his beloved Samoa.

In an exclusive interview with the Samoa Observer, Faiilagi was humbled when he was called out to receive his meritorious award. 

“I am just grateful and honoured to receive this award, it’s a good celebration and achievement for my first year and I thank my Moana brothers and the management for voting for me as this year’s Rookie of the Season,” he said.

“My journey with Moana has been amazing. God has been so good to me with all the blessings of opportunities along my journey this season. This team has a unique culture similar to home having lotu every day, a great environment to work in with good people.” 

Being able to sharpen his skills with seasoned athletes has contributed greatly to his rise as rookie of the year. 

“I got to meet and play with players I watched on TV when I was young. I have also gotten to travel to some places for the first time in my life and I am loving every minute working and training with the boys,” he said.

He has taken every opportunity that has come his way and made the most of it. He remains grounded on his own virtues and is very humble despite his achievements so far.

“I have learned a lot this year with some athletes, especially for my first season. The biggest one is just to be connected with the boys throughout the week, having catch up sessions every morning to get more understanding on what your role is during the game,” he said 

“Last week the season’s theme was all about Working Together “O faatasi”. Finishing strong leaving everything we have out there against the Waratahs and we got the win, this just shows how connected we are not only for that game but other games that were so close towards the end.

“It’s all prayers and hard work. To me, it’s just preparing very well throughout the week taking care of my body and taking notes so I can remain positive on game days and that is by bringing my best every day to training on and off the field.”

Faiilagi shares that his biggest support and inspiration comes from home, especially from his parents.

“I find inspiration from my parents who have sacrificed a lot for me, right from the start of my journey. My dad would push me and support me in everything i do, i know he’s not here anymore but i hope he is watching and proud of me,” he said

“My mum, ever since dad passed, has remained strong for me and my brother. I love them, and that’s why I’m still going strong; it’s because of their support.”