Vodafone Warriors TV caught up with old boy Sione Faumuina when he was back at the club today promoting his just-launched book "The Second Phase" (signed copies now on-sale through www.warriorsstore.co.nz).
These days Faumuina (35) lives in Brisbane with his partner Renay (expecting their second child) and their daughter Ella.
As Vodafone Warrior #98, he played 88 of his 131 NRL games for the Vodafone Warriors from 2002 to 2006.
Until today he had been back to Mount Smart Stadium just once since leaving the club in 2006; that visit was for the Vodafone Warriors' traditional Old Boys' Day last year.
At his best Faumuina was an exceptional footballer with rare skills. That was in full evidence when he threw a stunning no-look pass for Evarn Tuimavave to finish an outrageous try-scoring movement in the 32-12 win over the Broncos in Brisbane in 2002.
He went to another level during the club's outstanding 2003 campaign, perfectly demonstrated in his display in the Vodafone Warriors' 48-22 week one finals win over the Bulldogs (the day Francis Meli scored his record five tries). Check out both games on You Tube if you need a refresher.
However, his career - which included two Tests for the Kiwis - was one punctuated by numerous alcohol-fuelled off-field indiscretions.
These came to a head almost three years ago when Faumuina was motivated to confront his issues, swearing off alcohol and setting about turning his life around.
It has been almost three years since he had a drink now and he's adamant he will never drink again.
"The Second Phase" recounts his career and his life, warts and all. It's a story of redemption.
Today Faumuina spoke to Vodafone Warriors TV about coming back to Mount Smart Stadium, his book project, rebuilding his life and his passion for his old club, not least his excitement about what lies ahead in 2017.
Wearing his 2016 Vodafone Warriors old boys' polo, Faumuina spent time signing 200 copies of his book and also caught up with some familiar faces including Stephen Kearney, Stacey Jones and Andrew McFadden. He played alongside each of them at club or international level.
"THE SECOND PHASE" | BUY SIGNED COPIES NOW AT WWW.WARRIORSSTORE.CO.NZ
