The Otahuhu women’s rugby league team will field a more experienced side this year with New Zealand and Tongan international, Langi Veainu, joining the pack. 

Veainu’s latest outing at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where she represented Tonga, influenced her decision to join the Leopards for 2018.

“Representing my family at the Commonwealth Games was a huge deal after all they have done for me, it was a humbling experience I will never forget,” she said. 

“I just want to be with some of my best friends at Otahuhu, I’m excited to be a part of a new sisterhood and play in the blue and white jersey.”

Otahuhu’s player/coach Teuila Fotu-Moala, said Veainu will be a huge asset to the backline.

“I needed to play in the halves most of the season last year to help run the backline, but with Langi now playing with us she will add more flare, speed in the back three,” she said. 

“She will also add experience to our side which, is great for the development of our younger girls, who will have her to look up to.”

Fotu-Moala enters her second year with the dual role in the team, and said she is excited by what she’s seen this pre-season.

“I’ve been with Otahuhu since 2013 and wanted to teach everything I have learned, to make other people better players in the game,” she said. 

“I’m not just talking about game strategy, I’m talking about character building, leadership, mentality and empowerment.

“I love seeing development through people, whether it's in their game, or just the way they are as people, it’s what makes me happy, seeing people become something and be good people on and off the field.”

The Otahuhu Leopards also have five other Tongan representatives Lilieta Maumau-Pinomi, Eesha Smalley, as well as Noia and Leio Fotu-Moala (sisters of Teuila Fotu-Moala).

Words: Savannah Tafau-Levy

Photo: Instagram @lveainu