MOVE over Fuifui Moimoi, Parramatta has a new cult hero with a footballing future to match his enormous frame.
At just 19, Pauli Pauli still lives at home with his mum and dad and eight brothers and sisters.
The giant teenager’s life ambition is to one day follow in his father’s footsteps in the church and become a pastor.
But Parramatta fans will be hoping Pauli stays committed to the Eels’ cause as last year’s wooden spooners continue their charge to the finals.
Pauli Pauli at Parramatta recovery on Monday. Source: News Corp Australia
In just his 10th NRL appearance, this 120kg wrecking ball set up two tries in the Eels’ 22-12 win over the Bulldogs on Sunday.
And the combination of brute strength and skill he showed for the second try had some of the game’s most respected commentators in disbelief after he roped in three defenders before producing an unexpected offload to his unmarked winger.
Asked on Monday what was going through his mind as he charged at the Bulldogs’ defence, big Pauli simply shrugged.
Kenny Edwards and Pauli Pauli at Parramatta recovery. Source: News Corp Australia
“I was always going to offload,” he told The Daily Telegraph.
“I knew I could drag in three players and I was just trying to set up my winger.”
But while he terrorises opponents on the field, away from football this young man is nothing like what you might imagine given his intimidating appearance.
Born and raised in Bankstown, Pauli grew up with six sisters and two younger brothers — and while money was never in great supply, he says support was.
While his mother worked nights as a nurse, his father was a pastor. Faith and family have given him his strength as a footballer.
“I just leave everything to God because I truly believe God has put me here,” Pauli said.
“Growing up as a kid wasn’t an easy life for us.
“My parents came from Samoa and we didn’t have much money.
“But they gave up all their money to help me get to here today.”
Parramatta Eels press conference 5:10
Parramatta Eels coach Brad Arthur and skipper Tim Mannah dissect the Eels' gritty 10-point win over Canterbury on Sunday.
And those around him at Parramatta say the end result is one of the most respectful young men you will ever meet.
At team functions, Pauli sits around eating frozen yogurt with his girlfriend and singing the occasional song for teammates.
“It is a dream come true to be doing what I am doing,” he said.
“Growing up I never thought I would play first grade.”
Replies
Out of all our young guns, this guy has impressed me the most.
Still alot of work, esp defencively, but that's to be expected.
Love his ball skills and passing.
FUIFUI WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN, Pauli is light years away from being the cult hero fui is.
And what a delight it is to see another eels player preaching on about god in an interview, so refreshing isnt it, i just cant get enough, its like being in a church service every time i hear an eel interviewed, it must be great to be brainwashed.
Careful Snake,you don't want the god-botherers to get butt hurt.Poor souls are so sensitive when their silly superstitions are laughed at.They long for the good old days when they could burn people like you and me at the stake,for our own good mind you.
Every interview contains their preaching but if anyone mocks them,then we are being arseholes.
Solution? STOP TALKING ABOUT RELIGION EVERY BLOODY INTERVIEW,THEN I'LL STOP TAKING THE PISS OUT OF YOU.
Stick to football.
Fui will always be remembered as a legendary to this club anf will never be forgotten.
If you can't say something good u better not say anything.
Agree Tom, they are basically pushing it down peoples throats talking about it every time they are interviewed, its sad, can i read about my team and its players without constantly having religion bought into it? its like these kids have had a lobotomy for god.
Getting back onto footy, the kids a great player, no doubt about that, could be something very special in the future, he has the rare gift of awareness on the park, which is ofter in short supply for big forwards, im expecting big things from him, the kid can play.
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