Jason Jella Tufuga is only 17 years old but is already aspiring to do big things for his parents.
"I’m an only child, getting this scholarship has been hard for my parents to accept, but they understand, I am doing this for a good future," he told Loop Samoa after the launch of the seven blessed scholars who are travelling to New Zealand for school and rugby training.
Tufuga though, stands out from his other six colleagues whom he will be travelling with.
"I’m from Asau and Safotu, Savaii, and I'm an only child, so it’s really important for me to succeed," he said.
Despite being attached with Rugby Academy Samoa, undergoing intensive training and operation, Jason managed to do well in school as well.
"I've graduated from St. Josephs, I'm only 17 though and with my scholarship will be to attend year 13 again at a college in Hastings," he added.
"The main focus is education, if my rugby fails. But I do extremely well in education, then I’ll be able to carry on with my scholarships to University," he said.
Tufuga has been playing rugby since he was 11 years old.
He is one of hundreds of participants in the Rugby Academy Samoa initiative who has been in the academy for more than a year.
Tufuga plays at number seven as an open side flanker. The position where both strength, speed and brains all count in the game, and probably the most worked up with assignments when dealing with the ruck.
"I always admire Michael Hooper, his skills and how he plays is what I want to train to become like," he said.
"When I first joined the academy, Mahonri and the boys asked who my favorite player is?
And since then they've forged me into the type of player Hooper is."
Despite his lean and cut physique, Tufuga says he has been prepared well by RAS trainers and coaches, and he feels everything js complete about his preparations for the task ahead.
For the 17 year old, this is not just for the fun of playing rugby, it’s also for his parents, whom he says have no one else since he’s the only child. And understanding the tremendous responsibility now in his hands, Tufuga just can't wait for his chance to shine.