Faapulou Soolefai (born 8 May 1977) is a Samoan former international rugby union player.

Faapulou Soolefai
Date of birth (1977-05-08) 8 May 1977 (age 47)
Height6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
Weight204 lb (93 kg)
Rugby union career
Position(s) Centre / Wing
Provincial / State sides
Years Team Apps (Points)
1999–01 Taranaki 33 (60)
2008–09 Wanganui 10 (35)
International career
Years Team Apps (Points)
1999–01 Samoa 9 (0)

Rugby career

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A three-quarter, Soolefai had only just starting playing rugby before gaining Samoa under-16s representative honours. He was capped nine times for the full national team between 1999 and 2001, which included overseas matches against Wales, Scotland and the All Blacks.[1] During this time, Soolefai played provincial rugby in New Zealand with Taranaki.[2]

Soolefai competed in England for Bridgwater & Albion in the 2005–06 season, then had a successful stint with Southend, where he proved a regular try scorer.[3] He crossed for 32 tries to help Southend claim the 2006–07 National Division Three South title, earning them promotion to National Division Two.[4] After one more season at Southend, bowing out with a hat-trick against Henley, Soolefai played provincial rugby for Wanganui in 2008 and 2009.[5]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Samoan Hats wears World Cup ambition". The Echo. 15 January 2008.
  2. ^ "Lomu 'rested' for Samoa test - All Blacks News". NZ Herald. 10 June 2001.
  3. ^ "Samoan star Soolefai set to shine with Seasiders". The Echo. 15 August 2006.
  4. ^ "Hats off! Southend hero Soolefai on way". The Echo. 7 February 2008.
  5. ^ "Soolefai marks swansong in style". BBC News. 18 March 2008.
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