In the latest edition of GOLD Talks, we sit down with OJ Noa, a seasoned rugby player whose career has spanned the globe. From representing Manu Samoa internationally to playing for top teams in Australia, South Africa, Spain, and France, OJ brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the field. Now with NOLA Gold, OJ reflects on his diverse rugby journey, the style of play in the United States, and what it takes for American rugby to reach new heights. He also shares insights into NOLA Gold’s recent victory over Seattle, the team’s strategies for success, and their aspirations for making history in the playoffs.
Q: Your rugby career has taken you across the world. You’ve played internationally with Manu Samoa, but also for teams based in Australia, South Africa, Spain, and France. How did these experiences develop you as a player?
A: Yeah, being involved with a bunch of different teams helped develop me as a player. South Africa’s got a really fast-paced game, while France is heavily based on the set piece. It’s been great to be involved with so many teams.
Q: What’s the style of play in the United States?
A: I’d say it’s pretty expansive. The boys want to get their hands on the ball and play open rugby. It’s exciting stuff.
Q: What does the United States need to do to replicate the quality of some of those leagues that you’ve played in?
A: I think there’s already a good quality of players in America. It’s more about getting the rest of the country on board. There’s a lot of talent here, we just need to get everyone interested in the game.
Q: Are there players across the league that you know from your previous playing days abroad?
A: There are a few players that I know here from Manu Samoa. I also played with Rodney [Iona] in Canberra, Australia.
Q: How important was that win against Seattle for this team’s confidence moving into the rest of the season?
A: It was definitely a big game for us — pretty important. We didn’t come out well after our previous bye week with Miami, so I’m glad we changed that this time. We’re really happy with the win.
Q: What was the message at halftime that made this team come out firing in the second half?
A: Keep the belief. We just needed to stay switched-on mentally. We talked about doing the work instead of just doing the talk. We’ve said that we’re capable, so we knew what we needed to do and then did it.
Q: What was the biggest change in that second half? Tactics, physicality, execution, or anything else?
A: I’d say our energy level. We had a great energy to stay in the fight for the full 80.
Q: Looking ahead, we’ve got Utah on tap for Saturday. They’re a club with a lot of experience both in their roster and coaching staff. What parts of their game do we need to respect for this fixture?
A: We need to respect everything. They’ll bring a really strong physicality. They’ve got some big boys up front, but their back three is also dangerous. They’re an attacking team, so we need to close them down early so they don’t have opportunities to attack.
Q: We’ve got 7 games to make our mark and get into the playoffs for the first time in club history. Do you like our chances?
A: I definitely like them. It’s all about our attitude. We need to believe that we can win every game, and we need to play for each other.
Q: Who wins in a race, Jarred Adams or OJ Noah after 3 beers?
A: Oof, I’ve got to go with Jarred there.
Q: What if I switched it to Sean Paranihi?
A: I think I’ll definitely have that one. I’ve got that one.
