Thank You and Farewell Alando Soakai

As we close the door on an incredibly successful 2024 season, Wellington Rugby Football Union want to acknowledge the remarkable legacy Wellington Lions Head Coach Alando Soakai leaves behind as he departs for a new venture in 2025.

Soakai has today announced that he will be joining Moana Pasifika as the Defence Coach for the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. It marks the start of a new journey for the 41-year-old, who has enjoyed a highly decorated playing and coaching career.

Speaking of his time at Wellington Rugby, the title-winning Head Coach remarked:

“These last two seasons have been some of the best moments in my coaching career. The amount of growth and learnings throughout this time has put me in a better position to continue this coaching journey.”

“To win a championship as a first year Head Coach has made this time even more memorable, and the people around me. To the players, coaches and management I have had the pleasure to work with, I thank you.”

“Departing this team has not been an easy decision. Family is incredibly important to me, and the ability to coach at Moana Pasifika allows me to be closer to my loved ones.”

“To the loyal Lions fans, the clubs, the people of Wellington, I thank you for accepting me and allowing me to be part of your team and your region.”

Wellington Rugby CEO Tony Giles was sad to see him go, but full of praise for Soakai and his stellar achievements as head coach.

“We can’t thank Alando enough for what he has brought to the Wellington Rugby environment, and the positive impact he has had on our players, management and the wider Lions environment. This is an exciting new venture for Alando, and we totally understand and respect his decision to be closer to his family. He leaves behind and enduring legacy here at Wellington Rugby, and we wish him all the best.”