Manulua "Manu" Taula

Manulua “Manu” Taula was born in New Zealand, and came to the US to live with his Uncle Tony and Aunty Susana in May 2019. As a 15 year old, coming to America was an exciting prospect that he was ready to embrace. At the time, however, he didn’t anticipate the sacrifice, pain, fear he would experience, especially in not knowing when he’d see his family again. Still, the experience is something he cherishes because, at heart, he is still that same kid fighting to finish his race and walk that stage to receive his diploma.

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He is extremely thankful for his mum, dad, and family for being so supportive and loving throughout his journey here in the states and back home in New Zealand. “Not a single day goes by where I don’t think about my family, so them being so supportive has helped me a lot as a rugby player and in growing as a man,” Manu says.

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Manu is currently studying and playing for St Bonaventure University. He had a rough start to his college career, in which he got caught up in the “fun” and forgot his purpose and “WHY”. As a result he spent his whole sophomore year watching and observing how he could be better in the classroom and on the pitch. He eventually found himself again, and by his junior year was back on the field with his brothers and passing in the classroom.

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His rugby goal for the future is to play in Europe someday. Right now, though, he is going with the flow seeing how his college career goes, and sees whatever opportunity he gets during or after as a blessing.

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“At the end of the day all glory goes to my Lord and savior Jesus Christ for blessing me with this life and for the ability to play the sport I will always love and hate. I appreciate everyone who has helped, supported, pushed me along the way with my journey as a Man and a rugby player. The Marathon Continues…”