Moe Fotuaika - Player Discussion
Tug of war looms for triple-eligible Titans prop Moeaki Fotuaika
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Moe Fotuaika will make the hardest decision of his young NRL career when Queensland inevitably come knocking. A tug of war between his birthplace, his heritage and the state who raised him is already raging.
Gold Coast Titans prop Moeaki Fotuaika will make the hardest decision of his young NRL career when Queensland inevitably come knocking.
The 20-year-old forward is already one of the NRL’s top props but a tug of war between his birthplace New Zealand, his Tongan heritage and the state who raised him is already raging.
Tonga nearly won the race last year after naming the youngster in their initial squad for the 2019 Oceania Cup.
Wrist surgery forced Fotuaika out of his international debut and unlocked the door for a switch to Queensland, should he choose that path.
Titans teammate Kevin Proctor remembers his own decision between the country of his birth and the state that launched him towards an NRL Premiership with the Melbourne Storm.
Proctor followed his heart to don the black jersey and urged Fotuaika to do the same.
“He’s got a big decision to make,” the 24-test Kiwi international said.
“All those teams would be chasing him but it’s where his passion lies.
“Like all Kiwis growing up you get the opportunity to pledge your allegiance to Australia or New Zealand.
“I was so passionate about my country and wanted to play for New Zealand and that was my reason.
“It’s really what he wants to play and where his passion lies.
“There are so many great players in Queensland but he’d definitely be up to it.
“He’s a level-headed young man who he wouldn’t look out of place in Origin.”
Former Queensland prop Ben Hannant said Fotuaika’s form was strong enough to command a place in the Queensland 17 to take on New South Wales in November.
“He’s not massive but he punches above his weight for his size,” the five-time Origin champion said.
“When the Titans need someone in the middle he’s the guy they go to.
“When Moe goes on his efficiency is quite high and he’s always doing the tough stuff no one wants to do.
“When they want to move the ball forward he has footwork that helps him get quick play-the-balls and his side off to good starts.”
Hannant said the chance to build a brand and establish himself for life after footy was an consideration Fotuaika must weigh carefully.
“If he wants to stay here and build his brand playing Origin football will help that,” Hannant said.
“When football finishes you can build your brand up for opportunities here, and if you want to move (back to New Zealand) building your brand there will help.
“It all depends on your situation with your family, what you’re most passionate about and who you are.”
