Year 12 student, Tristan Tualagi is a talented rugby league player but despite all his achievements, there’s one thing that remains as one of his big goals to fulfil. And that’s to buy a house for his parents and give back to them for their love and support through everything he does.
“I really want to buy a house for my Mum and Dad, especially because they came from the Islands and the sacrifices (that they make) to put food on the table (and for me) to live my life,” Tristan says.
That’s why, every time he steps foot onto the field, he isn’t just playing for himself, but he’s playing for his family and his brothers – as he refers to his teammates.
Tristan recently, competed in the U18/U17 Open Grade Rugby League Tournament representing the Marist Rugby League Club. His team were crowned Champions, beating Manurewa in the final 22-14 at Mt Smart Stadium.
“It was a cool atmosphere…having fun and enjoying the moment. Enjoying the brotherhood with the Marist boys,” Tristan says.
With everyone on board, Tristan and his team put in strong performances against some determined teams to get to the final. This included Otahuhu who Tristan says was the toughest side they went up against, with many Junior New Zealand Warriors players in their team.
The commitment Tristan’s team had to playing together and putting in 100% percent no matter what, was key to their success. Tristan says: “Our team’s mindset when we went to the final was just to focus and play our game. Don’t let anything change, everyone’s gonna be there watching you, scouting you. (But) nothing changes, just play our game (and) what we’ve been showing the whole season…”
From an individual standpoint, Tristan says, “I think I played really well, even though it’s always a team effort. (But) I personally think that I could’ve done more, but we all played a collective game together as brothers.”
This year was Tristan’s first season representing the Marist Club, but before this, he’d played for Manurewa and Mangere. His father introduced him to Rugby League at a young age and he’s been playing ever since. Tristan loves the game and is dedicated to doing all he can to be the best. He puts in extra training sessions by attending the Sancta Maria College’s 1st XV rugby trainings during the week and is preparing for a National Rugby League Competition in Rotorua over the next school holidays.
He says that that he’s excited about the opportunity to prove a point and will be playing against the best teams from across the country.
Tristan’s hard work and his mentality to never settle has seen him strive for a bigger purpose. As he says, rugby league keeps him fit and is something he enjoys but he’s always thinking of a Plan B. At the moment, Tristan is not only preparing for his upcoming tournament, but he’s also focusing on graduating high school and considering a career in Engineering.
For Tristan, Rugby League has given him the chance to play in the home of New Zealand Rugby League and win at a high level, but he never let’s that change who he is. He continues to work and think about the impact he’s having on those around him – and that’s something to be admired.
Shontelle Matano
