Theo McFarland’s Rise from Basketball Star to Manu Samoa

by Taimalieutu Fuatino Muliagatele-Ah Wai

Theo McFarland’s rise from Samoa basketball star to being one of the best rugby union forwards playing in the English Premiership and for Manu Samoa is a remarkable journey. Not only is it an inspiring story for young rugby players and an example of what is possible for local athletes, it also demonstrates shows the wealth of talent available locally in Samoa.

McFarland is the second youngest of six children to Steve and Sarai McFarland, hailing from the villages of Moamoa, Aleisa, Salelologa and Vaigaga. The 27-year-old’s height, 6’6” (1.98m) and athleticism, developed in basketball, means he is equally comfortable playing either lock or flanker. From dunking basketball balls to the oval ball game, McFarland was blessed with natural talent from a young age, where he played both sports.

“I started playing rugby in high school for Pesega College (CCWS) from 2011-2013,” he explains. He was also making a name for himself in basketball during his teenage years, going on to captain the Samoa national basketball team.

He also continued playing rugby for his village, SSAB Moamoa Roosters Club, and soon his talent for Samoa’s national game began to get him noticed. He was selected for Samoa’s National A team, Manuma Samoa from 2019-2020. Then he earned a contract with American semi-pro team Dallas Jackals from 2020-2021 before making his Manu Samoa debut in 2021. He was in training with the Samoa Sevens team when English Premiership glamour club Saracens approached McFarland and offered him contract which he signed in August 2021. He was nothing short of a revelation in his first season of professional rugby making 26 appearances, winning try of the season award, and winning many fans with his athletic ability.

“It is always a privilege to be an ambassador representing my country,” says McFarland. “I’m fighting for a spot in the Manu Samoa squad for the World Cup this September. We’ve got an awesome group of experienced players and coaches and we’re very excited about doing well this year.”

Success comes with sacrifices, but McFarland urged locals to work hard and make the most of opportunities to chase their dreams. “One of the challenges of being a professional rugby player is the time away from family,” he explains. “I guess everything comes at a cost. To be successful, sacrifices have to be made. Having been born and raised in Samoa, I encourage the locals to keep chasing their dreams whichever sport it may be. It can be hard at times, especially trying to make it from a very small island. But opportunities will always present themselves if you work hard. Remember, dreams without work are just an illusion.”