As part of National Volunteer Week, the Auckland Rugby League is running a series of stories highlighting the efforts and contributions of some of our game's dedicated volunteer army. Here's our chat with Siali’i  Tufeao.

You've been coaching for a few years now, tell us how you got started?

I’d played at Marist for many years but have finished up now and once my son started playing when he was five years old in 2017, I jumped into the role of coaching him and stayed on. I'm coaching the U9 Marist team this year.

Did your experience as a player encourage you to stay involved?

For sure. Our Marist teams over the years have been awesome – the brotherhood specifically – I’ve made so many life-long friendships. I also enjoyed the family environment, that’s what has kept us going, even today we want to be there for our kids, the next generation. 

Marist bring through plenty of talent – let us in on the secret behind the club's junior development. 

I think it shows in our numbers, we get a bunch of new kids that come through each year which is great to see. There is no special ingredient, I just think it’s about the kids enjoying themselves and wanting to play with their friends. Marist is a welcoming place. 

What do you enjoy most about volunteering?

I have the label of coach for our U9 team, but every single father of our kids supports me by being assistant coaches. I’m pretty lucky to have played alongside some of them and to share a similar journey of getting our kids to play together.

The mothers can also get involved by putting their hands up to manage a team – it’s even easier if your partner is a coach – I enjoy it and enjoy seeing the kids have fun playing rugby league. 

As it happens your wife Minnie has put her hand up to manage the team, how’s the dynamic duo coming along? 

You’re going to need a whole page for this answer! All jokes aside, it’s easy because we are already a team. We work together well, sometimes we have our challenges but I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

What's been the trickiest part so far?

From a coach’s perspective it’s giving each player enough time on the field. Because of the numbers it’s always hard to make sure all kids have enough game time and it’s hard to say no. Saying no can impact the kids, that’s what you don’t want. 

If you were to encourage other people to volunteer what would your message be? 

Just do it! I totally get that it’s challenging to get out of your comfort zone, but none of us grew up as coaches and you have to start somewhere.

Interested in learning more about becoming a volunteer in Auckland league? Click here to find out what it's all about. 

Article added: Thursday 24 June 2021