Fa’aiuaso has been one of Samoa’s most prominent players since first representing Samoa at international level at the age of 15 and has experience playing previously with Tahitian club AS Pirae in the 2006 Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Club Championship.
Samoa Football Federation (SFSF-NC) CEO Colin Tuaa says that Fa’aiusao’s signing is crucial for Samoan football development.
“Desmond’s signing with YoungHeart Manawatu is great news for Samoa Football. The NZFC is a big step up from what he is used to and is a more physically demanding league. Des has the ability and work ethic to make an impact and his success will open doors for the other local players,” Tuaa said.
Fa’aiuaso joined the Palmerston North based franchise in October on a seven month deal but his debut in the current New Zealand Football Championship has been delayed by a quadriceps injury.
Fortunately his recovery has been quick and Fa’aiuaso returned to training last Thursday. With his leg on the mend, he is focused on securing a place in the YHM squad for their next game against Waitakere United on 16 November, at their home ground Memorial Park.
Fa’aiuaso says he is adjusting to New Zealand’s more physical and technical approach to football training and is also enjoying getting to know his new teammates.
“There’s a good mix of nationalities, we have English, Irish, Japanese guys, we are like a family now, I have made some very good friends and that is helping stop me from being homesick,” Fa’aiuaso says.
“I am enjoying my experience here,” said Fa’aiuaso. “The weather is a big change from sunny Samoa, but I am used to the cold now!”
The New Zealand Football Championship kicked off Sunday 1 November and will go through until May 2010. YHM secured an opening win on the 1 November, beating hot favourites Team Wellington 4-0.
Courtesy of SFSF-NC Media