Born: 1980 (Samoa)
Fiao’o Fa’amausili is a former New Zealand female rugby union player who has made significant contributions to the sport both on and off the field. Born on September 30, 1980, Fa’amausili has had a remarkable career that spanned over a decade and saw her achieve numerous milestones and victories.
Fa’amausili made her debut for the Black Ferns, the New Zealand women’s national rugby union team, on May 18, 2002, in a match against Australia in Barcelona. This marked the beginning of a successful international career that would see her represent her country in five Rugby World Cups from 2002 to 2017. She was a member of the winning Black Ferns squad in the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup, showcasing her skill and leadership abilities on the world stage.
Hailing from Samoa, Fa’amausili moved to New Zealand at the age of five with her family. Her strong ties to her Samoan heritage are evident in her regular visits to Samoa. These visits allow her to connect with her cultural roots and maintain a connection to her ancestral homeland.
In addition to her sporting prowess, Fa’amausili has also made a significant impact in her professional life. She serves as a police detective in south Auckland, demonstrating her commitment to public service and community wellbeing. Her dedication to her career highlights her strength and resilience both on and off the rugby field.
Throughout her career, Fa’amausili has achieved numerous accolades and milestones. She has won a remarkable four Women’s Rugby World Cup titles, a testament to her skill, leadership, and determination. Fa’amausili has also captained the Black Ferns from 2012 to 2018, guiding and inspiring her teammates to success.
Her exceptional contributions to rugby have been recognized and celebrated. In the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours, Fa’amausili was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to rugby. This prestigious recognition showcases her impact and influence within the sporting community.
Fa’amausili’s achievements extend beyond her playing career. In 2021, she was elected as the first female President of the Auckland Rugby Union, breaking new ground and further promoting gender equality and diversity in the sport.
Her remarkable contributions to rugby were further acknowledged when she was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in a special ceremony held during the 2021 Rugby World Cup semi-finals at Eden Park on November 5, 2022. This esteemed honor solidifies Fa’amausili’s position as one of the game’s all-time greats and recognizes her immense impact on the sport.
Fiao’o Fa’amausili’s dedication, skill, and leadership have made her an inspiration to women and girls in rugby and beyond. She has left an indelible mark on the sport, paving the way for future generations of female players and demonstrating the power of perseverance and passion. Her legacy will continue to shape the rugby landscape and serve as a reminder of the immense talent and strength women bring to the game.
Awards:
– Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for services to rugby (2018)