Ati played with Manu Samoa at the 2008 Pacific Nations Cup. During this competition he made his test debut against Tonga and will be in the Samoa squad through until the next RWC 2011 in New Zealand. Having been involved with Wellington at NPC level and standing at 6ft 4' and weighing just over 16 stone he uses his full frame to typical Samoan effect. Ati has turned down offers from various NPC franchises in order to remain loyal to Wellington. He is highly regarded by the staff coaches as the below reference demonstrtes.
Not surprising he is quick, physical and has very good hands. Ati is very comfortable playing in any of the three back row positions, he has played representative Rugby at No8 and Openside and it is his versatility that will make him attractive to professional squads. Ati is a qualified Rugby Development Officer in New Zealand and is looking to play worldwide. He would bring a very competative nature to any squad. He applies himself totally and is committed to Rugby. He is also very willing to be involved with Junior or Academy Coaching as part of any club duties.
A very experienced loose forward that can play all three positions. He is explosive has good aerial skills and executes good low body position for ground attack. Ati has a high work rate and always extends himself. His all round skill level is high and he possess good game knowledge. A strength of Ati is that he is an outstanding person and has very high expectations of himself. He possess a high achievment attitude and always gives his best.
Chris Stirling Wellington NPC Staff Coach Cornish Pirates Rugby
Ati has signed for the 2009 - 2010 season with Galwegians RFC in AIB 1 and will also be part of the Connacht extended squad.
