INGA THE WINGER AN ICON & INSPIRATION

The All Blacks legend achieved things others could only dream about

- Sebastian van der Zwan

A spokesperson for the All Blacks said it best when they described Va’aiga Tuigamala as “an icon and inspiration” and “an all-time great who achieved things on and off the pitch others could only dream of”.

Proudly known as “Inga the Winger” during his 19 tests for New Zealand between 1991 and 1993, the Samoan-born sporting legend went on to play rugby league professionally in the UK and later represented Manu Samoa in rugby, before tragically passing away at just 52 last week.

“He was a huge man, a very powerful runner, and could run over and around people,” said former All Blacks coach John Hart in an emotional tribute. However, he added, “The thing that everyone will remember is that infectious smile that he had throughout his life... He was just a very, very special young man. Everyone liked him. He wouldn’t have had many enemies in the world.”

Kris Radlinski – executive director of the Wigan Warriors, Inga’s former league club in Manchester – added, “Every now and then, a player comes along who touches the heart and soul of every single fan, player, coach and administrator. Inga was one of them… His presence on the rugby field was huge.”

Speaking recently to Woman’s Day, Inga recalled being named as an All Black in 1989, at just 19 years of age, as the highlight of his sporting career. It was a dream he’d never thought he’d achieve, he said, adding that representing the hopes of the nation was the privilege of his life.