INSIDE THE MIND OF... SIONE KALAMAFONI

The Scarlets back-row talks West Wales, Chicago and Tonga

“I mainly spend time with my family away from rugby – we go to the sea a lot. I’ve also been out golfing with Blade

Thomson.”

“We didn’t know anything about West Wales (before moving to Scarlets

in 2020) – we’d always stayed in the Midlands – but it didn’t take us long to fall in love with the place. The people, the culture,

the beach…”

“If I could meet anyone it would be my

grandparents on both sides of my family. I didn’t really know them growing up and they passed away when I was very, very young, so I’d like to hang out with

them a bit more.”

“I went to

Chicago for two years with my church to teach about God and Jesus Christ. We also get involved with the community. For example, we would work with nuns at a

foodbank.”

“There was never a time growing up when there were less than ten or 12 kids in the house. I’ve four older brothers, then we’d have cousins or friends who stayed with us. Most parents in Tonga don’t turn away anyone who wants to stay. I have four kids now

and I don’t know how my parents handled it!”

“If I’d gone straight from Tonga to America it would have been a shock, but I went to New Zealand on a scholarship to Auckland Grammar for a year, so that

helped.”

“The World Cup is a different level of games, a different level of atmosphere, and to represent your country on that

stage is the highlight of my career. Upsetting France in 2011 is one of the most memorable games I’ve been involved with.”

“I grew up playing rugby with my mates, but in terms of being involved in a team that wasn’t until I was 16 at high school. Growing up, rugby in Tonga is like football here, so I’d play with my friends and family from about the age of

eight.”

“I didn’t know much about the UK or

Nottingham, but after the Pacific Nations Cup in 2010, Glenn Delaney wanted me to join his team. I spoke to my agent at the time and he thought it would be good. I’ve been here ever

since.”

“There’s a good bunch of boys at the Scarlets, a very good team, and we’re hoping to have a more successful campaign. It’s good to have a few Tongans around

too.”

“After the 2019 campaign I retired from international rugby but the coach has asked me what I think

of coming back. I said, ‘If you have too many injuries, give me a call!’ There are a lot of talented back-rows coming through for Tonga. It’s time for them to shine.”