Young star with a big future

By Sina Sevaaetasi 06 October 2016, 12:00AM

At only nineteen years of age, Erin Clarke is set to make his second appearance in the international arena for Toa Samoa.  

While still in high school, Clark commanded the attention of several high profile rugby league clubs with his amazing skills and leadership on the field. 

He dominated the pitch at the New Zealand Secondary Schools Nationals and was signed to the Vodafone’s Warriors NYC squad at only 17 years old. 

Now, he is putting on the blue and white jersey once again for his second international test match for Toa Samoa. 

However, the Vodafone Warrior is used to being in the international sporting arena.  

Clark is the son of the retired international Silver Fern, Temepara Anne Bailey.  

So, what attracts the young talent to Samoa? 

Not only does playing rugby for Toa Samoa expose him to first grade rugby but also reconnects him to his roots.  

Clarke is of Samoan and Maori descent and hails from the village of Aleisa. 

He stated , “I’ve been brought up in New Zealand so I don’t know much about my Samoan culture. It’s just another step for me to go back through my ancestry and just learn. ” 

He is amazed at the unique asethtic beauty that only Samoa offers, stating, “It’s different, you see all the houses and you see all the big beautiful churches.” 

Also, the tight knit family culture that many of the Toa Samoa players have raved about is what keeps him coming back.

“The big family we have here.  I had my first camp in May, and I’ve just felt welcomed.” 

Will we being seeing him again for the World Cup? 

Clark stated,  “For me, if I get the chance and Matty sees the potential in me to play for the World Cup, then I’ll play for Samoa, 100%.”

By Sina Sevaaetasi 06 October 2016, 12:00AM
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