Tana Umaga on new All Blacks role: 'Who are you to turn that down?’

Moana Pasifika head coach and newly named All Blacks assistant Tana Umaga has reflected on his decision to leave the Super Rugby Pacific franchise for his new role under Dave Rennie.

Umaga, the first New Zealander to captain the All Blacks of Pacific Island heritage, will join Rennie’s coaching staff after the conclusion of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season.

The 52-year-old explained that his thought process during the decision came down to his love and connection to the black jersey.

“There wouldn’t be many teams that you’d want to leave this environment for, my heart’s always with culture and All Blacks culture, representing the country I was born in, to the culture of my parents, and the heritage,” Umaga said in a Moana Pasifika social media video.

“You know that in the blood that runs through me, you know that I have deep connections to both of those so it has to be something that I’m really connected to for me to move on.

“It’s a tough decision, but it’s one of those that’s like when I got asked to be the captain, like, is it something you turned down when I’m asked, can I think about it? Then I kind of think back, oh, who are you to turn that down?

“Man, people would fight each other for that kind of job, often, in terms of these two teams or organisations that mean a lot to me, both of them, because they’re part of me.

“So you take that approach to it, that this is what I can control now, this is what I’m up to, and I’ve got to make sure I do that well with Moana Pasifika and respect the time I’ve got here.”

Speaking to media on Tuesday afternoon, the newly named assistant coach described what he was feeling after the announcement.

“I’m a little bit speechless, I suppose, in terms of the opportunity that’s been given to me,” Umaga said.

“Proud’s an understatement really and to be back part of a team that holds a special place for me and my family and to get back in there, it’s unbelievable really.

“I‘ve been fortunate enough to actually captain this side and that was a big job, and I had to understand that and then also understand what that comes with, the sacrifices that not just yourself, but your family have to make and so, I go in there with eyes wide open and understanding those pressures,” Umaga told media in Auckland.

“I know what I’m getting myself into and I’m looking forward to the challenge.”

On New Zealand Rugby’s social media post after the announcement, Umaga said it’s a proud moment for him.

“It’s no small undertaking but it’s a privilege and an honour.”

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Moana Pasifika CEO Debbie Sorensen believes this is a crucial moment for the Pacific community.

“We are immensely proud of Fa’alogo and could not be happier for his aiga,” Sorensen told media.

“Not only is this a huge moment for the franchise, but for our Pacific community and especially our younger generations, who get to see two leaders of Pacific heritage coaching the All Blacks.”