Rugby league history
- Thread starter innsaneink
- Start date
Forty years ago, one man helped change the perception of Polynesian players in rugby league with a style of football that announced the arrival of the Polynesian power game.
Olsen Filipaina was a trailblazer. As legendary coach Graham Lowe said, "Olsen was the face of hope for many Polynesians who were disadvantaged by lack of opportunity."
Raised in South Auckland's Mangere East, a league heartland, the son of a Māori mother and Samoan boxer father, Olsen became one of the first Polynesian superstars of rugby league.
His speed, balance, power and fearlessness changed the game and inspired generations to believe they belonged on the biggest stage.
Forty years on, "The big O remains a hero, a pioneer and one of the greatest players New Zealand has ever produced. His impact on rugby league and Polynesian communities will never be forgotten.
Olsen Filpaina passed 10 February, 1922
RIP
Olsen Filipaina was a trailblazer. As legendary coach Graham Lowe said, "Olsen was the face of hope for many Polynesians who were disadvantaged by lack of opportunity."
Raised in South Auckland's Mangere East, a league heartland, the son of a Māori mother and Samoan boxer father, Olsen became one of the first Polynesian superstars of rugby league.
His speed, balance, power and fearlessness changed the game and inspired generations to believe they belonged on the biggest stage.
Forty years on, "The big O remains a hero, a pioneer and one of the greatest players New Zealand has ever produced. His impact on rugby league and Polynesian communities will never be forgotten.
Olsen Filpaina passed 10 February, 1922
RIP
