Translated from FaaSamoa. The village of Solosolo in Upolu have honoured Manu Samoa player Fritz Lee with a matai title.
The talking chief title of Nuafesili was bestowed upon the former Waikato Chiefs player in a ceremony held this morning.
Esteemed members of the Alii ma Faipule – the Village Council of Chiefs as well as family, friends and members of the Manu Samoa 15s and Management.
Nuafesili Fritz Lee was flanked by Member of Parliament for Solosolo, Hon Fonotoe Nuafesili Piea Lauofo to one side, and Minister of Women, Community and Social Development, Hon Leota Laki Lamositele Sio to his other side.
Nuafesili Fritz was born in Solosolo and grew up in Samoa, attending St Joseph’s College before he moved to New Zealand at the age of 15.
He is the son of Telefina of Solosolo and Fritz from the village of Vailele.
The 34 year old is a former New Zealand 7s international and Waikato Chiefs Super Rugby player. He captained Counties Manukau in 2013 and led them to the playoffs; and also led them to their first ever Ranfurly Shield challenge win against Hawkes Bay in Napier.
Last weekend, Nuafesili Fritz led the Manu Samoa onto the field at Apia Park against Fiji in his first game as Captain.
Before partaking the ava during the ceremony Nuafesili thanked God, his family and village for the honour given to him and wished Solosolo village and Samoa well.
“Lau ava lenei Le Atua. Faafetai i le tatou nuu, faafetai i tatou aiga mo le fa’aeaea. Faamanuia mai Le Atua i le tatou nuu ma le tatou atunuu. Go Manu.”
