Marist Rugby Club looseforward, Malaesaili Elato, is one of the two locally based players selected for the Manu Samoa squad. The selection came as a shock to Malaesaili. 

However, he is going to take the opportunity to shine and represent Samoa with pride. 

In an interview with the Samoa Observer, he shared how he started his rugby career in his village at Sataoa before moving to the Marist Rugby Club. The 21-year-old is from Sataoa and Fogapoa, Savaii. 

"The Marist club has been a great support system in developing and upskilling me, so I applaud them. I was taken by surprise when I got selected into the Manu Samoa squad to play Scotland. I understand that these opportunities are rare, not everyone gets to be selected and I'm grateful to be part of the team. All glory goes back to God," he said.

He also shared how peer pressure has been a challenge for him and his rugby career. Hw is willing to surpass that hurdle to reach his dreams and discover his true potential. 

"There are challenges that come with the sport, but for me personally ,peer pressure and parties are the number one challenges. Avoiding these things will surely help me get to where I want to be in rugby," he said. 

"Staying focused and training hard is obviously on the list for me. With 35 players selected, I should train hard and work hard so that I can get selected to play and represent our country in the upcoming game. It's not going to be easy, as other players are all great players, but staying fit and working hard will surely pay off in the end. 

"The Marist Rugby Club has helped a lot in the development of my rugby career. Our management and coaches have provided me with support in terms of giving advice and always ensuring that I'm on the right track."

President and coach for Marist Rugby Club, Tapunuuomanu Roger Warren couldn't be more proud of the achievement.

"Malaesaili’s selection in the Manu Samoa squad is not only a tremendous blessing for him and his family but a proud milestone for our Marist Rugby Club," he said. 

"It stands as a beacon of hope for our young academy players, reaffirming that local talent, when nurtured with discipline and guidance, can rise to the highest level. We commend the Manu Samoa management for recognising the potential within our domestic rugby system," he said.

Malaesaili was selected from the ongoing National Provisional Championship where he was able to showcase his potential, rugby skills, great discipline.