If selected this weekend for the big home match against Grammar TEC, halfback Dwayne Polataivao is in line to become Pakuranga’s 33rd centurion. Dwayne captained Pakuranga to Waka Nathan titles in 2011 and 2016 as was part of the Gallaher Shield winning side in 2013.

The Manu Samoa representative made his debut for the premiers more than 10 years ago, we caught up with him to find out some of his favourite memories as a Ranga man.

What do you remember about your debut?

It was a pre-season match against Papatoetoe. I had to play for the Prem Development to prove I was good enough for Wayne Pivac, who was coach at the time. Straight after the Prem Development match he told me to come on the bench for the Premier team and from there I was blessed to debut for Pakuranga.

Who have been some of the best players you have played alongside at Pakuranga ?

The most naturally gifted footballer would be my uso, who is now my coach Aula Silipa. The guy could do something out of nothing. (Carpark chats) lol

Many great names have come through Pakuranga, but I can't go past the squad in 2013. There have been some pretty special players most notably Charles Piutau, Sam Vaevae, Naamatahi Waa, Gareth Arlidge, TJ Faiane, Dalton Papalii, Malakai Fekitoa and Tom McCartney to name a few.

Also just wanted to highlight the club stalwarts when I was coming through guys like Jono Steele, Sean Winstanley, Mark (Dicko) Dickison, Kapaneta Masunu, Timoti Militoni; blokes that helped pave the way for the next generation of Ranga men.

What was the toughest game you recall?

It was in 2010 and was my first game against Ponsonby. I remember clearly the Ponies halfback at the time Roger T - and man he took me to school that day. He was aggressive, controlled and made sure I knew who was boss. I was 19 at the time and from that moment I understood quickly what it took to play against men in the premier competition. That was tough from a team perspective we were beaten comfortably 76-0 lol

What does it mean to be a Ranga Man?

It’s very special for me. A club with great history and great people around. I am a very proud ranga man and I love this club.

Favourite thing about the club ?

The club as a whole and supporters.

A message to any aspiring young Pakuranga player

Always have faith even when you’re not winning… Trust the process and keep pushing forward!

Article added: Tuesday 01 June 2021