Iafeta Paleaaesina

Who is Iafeta Paleaaesina?

Iafeta Iakopo Paleaaesina, is a rugby league footballer of Samoan heritage, currently playing for the Salford City Reds of Super League. He plays as a prop.

Educated at Penrose High School in Auckland, Iafeta Paleaaesina started playing rugby league at the age of 9 with New Zealand club Otahuhu Leopards.

He made his National Rugby League debut with the New Zealand Warriors against Northern Eagles in June 2001, and went on to become one of the club's most effective performers. Before his NRL debut, he had previously played for Papatoetoe in the Auckland competition, and Hibiscus Coast Raiders in the Bartercard Cup.

In June 2005 he signed a three-year deal to play for Wigan, starting in 2006. Recently arrived Wigan coach Ian Millward commented: "This is a great signing for us. He will add size and pace to our pack for next year and he is only 23 years of age." Paleaaesina said: "It's a great thrill to be joining Wigan and my good friend Jerry Seu Seu. I had several offers but Wigan is still the biggest name down here and it will be a thrill to play for them."

Paleaaesina played for the Junior Kiwis in 2001, and the Kiwis in 2005.