After having an impeccable year with the Miami Dolphins, the star quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa might be eligible for a contract extension in 2024. Besides that, his younger brother who is also a quarterback at the collegiate level has entered the portal hoping to get drafted in 2024. Looks like 2024 is the year of success, growth, and fortune.
Let’s take this time to look back at his roots and pay homage to his long voyage and eventually making it on the big stage. So what is Tua Tagovailoa’s ethnic background?
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Tua Tagovailoa’s Ethnicity And Nationality
Although born and raised in Ewa Beach, Hawaii, Tua Tagovailoa is of Samoan descent. Both his parents, Galu and Diane Tagovailoa, were born in American Samoa and immigrated to Hawaii. He was born in the United States and is an American citizen.
However, he never forgot where he came from. He grew up immersed in Samoan culture and traditions, which has played a significant role in shaping his identity and world views.
| Full Name | Tuanigamanuolepola “Tua” Tagovailoa |
| Birthplace | Ewa Beach, Hawaii |
| Ethnicity | Samoan |
| Nationality | American |
| Faith | Christianity |
| First Language | English and Samoan |
| Parents | Galu and Diane Tagovailoa |
Born on 2nd March 1998, in the small city of Ewa Beach on the island of O’ahu, Hawaii, Tau Tagovailoa is the eldest son of Galu and Diane Tagovailoa. He has two younger sisters Taylor and Taysia, and a younger brother named Taulia.
Turns out he is not the only athlete in the family, his father was a powerlifter and self-taught football coach, while his younger brother is a collegiate-level quarterback for Maryland.
Tua’s grandfather, Seu Tagovailoa, was a highly respected figure in the Samoan community in Hawaii who held the title of high chief in their native village of Vatia in American Samoa. He is also credited for naming Tau, which was inspired by a bird that flew over the Samoan communities.
Tua Tagovailoa Faith
Family, community, and faith are vital parts of Samoan culture along with music and dance. Tua grew up in a Christian family and has been a strong believer and follower of Jesus Christ since his formative years. He loves spending time with his family and making time for church.
After losing a game Tagovailoa said- “I think the best thing about being a believer of Jesus Christ, to me, is that the Good Lord up above doesn’t care whether you win a game, whether you lose a game”.
Tua Tagovailoa Football Career
Tua’s football career started at Saint Louis School (Honolulu), which has also produced other quarterbacks like Marcus Mariota who made it to the NFL. He led the Crusaders to the 2016 state title while becoming one of the best high school prospects in Aloha State history after 247Sports ranked him the No. 1 dual-threat quarterback and No. 32 overall player.
After high school he committed to the University of Alabama, joining another Hawaiian legend, Crimson Tide quarterback Ken Stabler. At Alabama as a freshman backup, Tagovailoa entered the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship and threw the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime, securing Alabama’s victory.
In 2018, he became the starting quarterback, setting numerous Alabama records for passing efficiency and touchdowns. He also finished second in Heisman Trophy voting that season. Unfortunately, Tua suffered a season-ending hip injury in 2019 but despite injury concerns, Tagovailoa was drafted fifth overall by the Miami Dolphins in 2020. Let’s take a quick view of his NFL journey
NFL (2020-present)
- Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 2020
- His rookie season saw him share playing time with veteran Ryan Fitzpatrick.
- In 2021, Tagovailoa established himself as the Dolphins’ starting quarterback, showcasing his talent and resilience.
- 2022 was a break-out year, Tagovailoa led the NFL in passer rating, establishing himself as one of the league’s top young quarterbacks.
- In 2023, Tagovailoa led the league in passing yards and earned his first Pro Bowl selection, solidifying his status as a rising star.
Conclusion
While he gives props to his dad and grandfather for discovering his talent, it’s unfortunate his grandfather never got to experience his grandson’s success as he passed away in 2014.
Tua Tagovailoa has always stayed close to his roots, never forgetting where he came from while going places no one has ever gone. Today he has established himself as one of the top NFL quarterbacks in the league as of 2024.
