Tony Alatini reflects on the passing of Taniela Moa
This is a photo with Nela in 2007 in Singapore for 7s Rugby. Nela was a star with De La Salle 1st XV championship team of 03. So he'd be only about 21 here. He came with the Tongan 7s team coached by Peter Tanginoa playing under Te Papa. I knew of Nela but I had left NZ in 04 and was now living and coaching in Perth. This is the first time I met him and I was massively impressed by how respectful he was with a cheeky humour but kind hearted.. He's wearing a singlet cause he's given (foaki) his Tongan polo to my wife Sarah lol.
One of our best 9 if not the best to wear the red jersey. So much talent. He was keen to help out with our Tongan Barbarian Rugby school team as a resource coach. He was also looking to get into youth work with at risk kids. Nela has been a professional pretty much since he left school, here and overseas. I know our Pasifika kids would have learnt so much from his experience and knowledge. Thoughts and prayers for your famili during this difficult period. RIP Nela. Ofa lahi atu
