On Sunday, Payne Haas, the most well-known active Australian rugby league player, threw down the gauntlet. This time the North Queensland Cowboys player is defecting from the Kangaroos to Toa Samoa. He first thought about playing for Samoa four months ago. This momentous decision is heavily influenced by his familial and cultural connections to the island. Haas, known for his impressive career, posed with a Samoan flag during the announcement, symbolizing his commitment to his heritage.
Under international rugby league rules, all players are allowed to represent a national side unilaterally switching their allegiance. They can’t compete for both countries in the same calendar year. Haas has now been used in four Tests thus far for Australia, scoring one try. Individually, he has represented New South Wales 17 times in State of Origin matches. His decision rules him out of Australia’s next Ashes tour of England.
A Family Legacy
Haas’s connection to Samoa goes back to the very roots, inspired by his uncle, Mark Taufua, who played for Toa Samoa. Focusing on the theme of home and community, Haas said connecting to his family roots sustained him through his year.
“There was a moment when I played for Australia and we versed Samoa and the anthems were playing, and my mind started racing back with lots of memories with my mum making us sing the national anthem of Samoa in the back of the car,” – Payne Haas.
As he reflected on the emotional weight of this decision, he attributed culturally rich and fulfilling experiences to his Samoan identity. The stakes became more apparent.
“I think from that moment onwards I wanted to play for Samoa and represent my mum’s side, the Taufua side, and really make them proud. My grandparents as well,” – Payne Haas.
Support from the Rugby League Community
Immediately after the announcement, the rugby league community erupted with elation, certainty, exuberance, and optimism on the positives of this possibility. New Toa Samoa head coach Ben Gardiner is especially pumped to have Haas on board!
“We’re excited to welcome Payne into the Toa Samoa family,” – Ben Gardiner.
Fiu Ponifasio Vasa, a leader of the Samoan community, underscored just how important Haas’ decision was.
“Having a player of Payne’s standing in the game pledging for Samoa means so much to our people in Samoa and the wider Samoan community around the world,” – Fiu Ponifasio Vasa.
He further noted that Haas’s decision would encourage thousands of future young players to feel proud of their background.
“It’s been a dream to have all our sons of Samoa from the NRL represent their heritage and Payne’s decision will inspire many,” – Fiu Ponifasio Vasa.
A New Chapter for Toa Samoa
With four Dally M Prop of the Year awards to his name already, Payne Haas has shown just how talented he is. He’s currently bringing that experience to Toa Samoa. His switch makes the Kiwis a much more competitive team and represents a huge cultural shift in the game of international rugby league.
As the rugby league world watches, Haas’s commitment to representing Samoa stands as an inspiring example of embracing one’s roots. The upcoming season will undoubtedly showcase his determination to honor his family’s legacy and contribute to Toa Samoa’s success on the international stage.
