Theo McFarland has been given the Manu Samoa captain’s armband for the July Tests against Italy and Spain, and according to management, the lock deserves the leadership role.
The 28-year-old was one of the outstanding players from the team’s last campaign. From playing rugby at Pesega College and then at Moamoa Roosters, he is now enjoying success at Saracens in England.
“First, I just want to thank our head coach as well as our management for recognising my ability to take up such a huge responsibility as the Manu Samoa captain,” said McFarland.
“I was taken by surprise when the coach gave me the role. I wasn’t sure about this. I sat down and thought about it because it’s a role that I have not taken lightly. So, I spoke with former captains and they gave me encouragement and I am now eager to take on the role.”
McFarland believes the mood in the camp is great and believes they have a strong team.
“It’s fairly a new group and the boys are very eager to learn and to work together, and so far, we’ve had a good week, a good start and we are excited to take on Italy on Friday night.”
The Manu Samoa head coach, Mase Mahonri Schwalger, told the media that McFarland was selected because of his outstanding character and his leadership abilities.
“The captain’s position is very important for the development of a team and for the team moving forward. So it is not an easy job,” said Mase.
“As a coach, I look for someone who is respected by players, I also look at someone who is respected by the public, someone whom I believe the country is looking at and say that he can lead.”
“He was built for Manu Samoa in terms of his leadership. Someone with a strong character, and true to himself and his ways of leading.
That is why our management appointed Theodore McFarland to be captain, hopefully from here onwards until the World Cup in 2027.”.
