Lina Lomu: Building a Rugby Legacy Beyond the Lomu Name

Lina Lomu’s rugby journey is one that intertwines her rich cultural heritage with a relentless drive to carve her own path in the sport. Raised in Tonga and New Zealand, Lina grew up surrounded by rugby icons—her late uncle, Jonah Lomu, being one of the most legendary figures in the game. With a family steeped in rugby, Lina was immersed in the sport from an early age, but her journey was far from easy.

Starting with touch rugby at 12, Lina transitioned to contact rugby at 21, determined to make a name for herself, not just in the shadows of her family’s legacy but on her own terms. As the only American-born member of her family, Lina brought her unique style and competitive edge to the pitch, blending her Tongan roots with her American spirit. While rugby was in her blood, she faced significant cultural challenges, particularly as a Tongan woman playing a contact sport.

In Tongan society, there are traditional views that often discourage women from engaging in physically demanding sports like rugby, which are seen as more suited for men. Lina, however, was determined to break through these barriers, challenging not only the expectations of her community but also the gender norms that existed around her. For Lina, stepping onto the field wasn’t just about playing a sport—it was an act of defiance and empowerment. She had to navigate societal pressures that frowned upon women participating in a traditionally male-dominated game. Balancing her cultural heritage with her personal passion for rugby required resilience and courage. Lina proudly stood as a trailblazer, showing that Tongan women, like herself, could excel in rugby and redefine what it means to be a female athlete in her culture.

This cultural tension wasn’t always easy to manage, and Lina often found herself having to prove not just her skills but her right to play the game she loved. Despite these obstacles, she remained unwavering in her commitment, ultimately becoming the first woman in her family to wear the Tonga National Jersey—a powerful symbol of her success in breaking these barriers.

Lina’s passion for rugby extends beyond the game. Her heart is deeply connected to her family, and she often draws strength from prayers and the memories of her late family members. For Lina, rugby is more than a sport; it’s a tool for change. She’s already begun a mentorship program in East Palo Alto, using rugby to uplift the local youth and community, empowering them to overcome obstacles both on and off the field.

Despite the challenges she’s faced, including injuries and societal expectations, Lina views setbacks as opportunities to reflect, recoup, and come back stronger. She believes in balancing rugby with other aspects of life, encouraging young athletes to find themselves outside the game and integrate that into their play. Her message to up-and-coming players is simple: have fun, embrace who you are, and use rugby as a way to build yourself.

Lina’s future goals in rugby are clear—she wants to coach and continue mentoring others. With the experience she’s gained from playing for clubs like the Berkeley All Blues WPL, H.E.B Hurricanes 7s, and representing Tonga, Lina is well-positioned to make a lasting impact on the sport she loves. After rugby, Lina envisions herself as someone who lived life to the fullest, satisfied with the legacy she leaves behind.