The Connacht Centre Bundee Aki is forever grateful for his parents’ love and support in all aspects of his personal and professional life.
Known for his exceptional skills on the field, Aki’s journey to rugby stardom is also marked by the support and guidance of his parents, Hercules and Sautia Aki.
These two remarkable individuals have played a pivotal role in shaping Bundee into the rugby powerhouse he is today.
Bundee Aki, born Fua Leiofi Bundellu Aki, is a professional rugby union player. Currently, he plays as a center for United Rugby Championship club Connacht.
Although Aki was born in New Zealand, he represents Ireland internationally, given his qualification on residency grounds.
Growing up, the player attended Manurewa High School, where he showcased his rugby skills as a member of the school’s First XV rugby team.
Similarly, his club career began with the Borneo Eagles, a team based in Sabah, East Malaysia.
Later, he joined Counties Manukau and the Chiefs before moving to Irish side Connacht in 2014.
Moreover, Aki led Connacht to their first-ever PRO12 title in the 2015-2016 season.
Bundee Aki Parents, Sautia & Hercules Aki
Bundee Aki was born in the Auckland suburb of Otahuhu, New Zealand, to his parents, Hercules and Sautia Aki. He is the second eldest of seven children in the Aki family.
Growing up in a tight-knit household, he was instilled with the values of hard work, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
Hercules and Sautia Aki’s story is one of dedication and sacrifice. But their determination to provide a better life for their family was unwavering.
The Aki family’s bond remains strong, even with Hercules and Sautia currently residing on the other side of the world in the Auckland suburb of Manurewa.
Despite the distance, they have played an integral role in Bundee’s life, especially when it comes to his rugby career.
Bundee often speaks fondly of his parents and their role in his life. One of the most heartwarming aspects of his relationship with his parents is their post-game phone calls.
After every match, whether it’s a thrilling victory or a challenging loss, Bundee eagerly picks up his phone to speak with Hercules and Sautia.
In fact, the first people Aki rang following his inclusion in the Ireland squad in 2017 were his parents back in New Zealand.
“I rang them up in the middle of the night and all they did was cry,” Aki said in an interview.
Hercules Is A Very Tough Critic
Bundee Aki’s father, Hercules, is known to be a tough critic. He doesn’t shy away from giving Bundee an earful when he spots mistakes or areas that need improvement.
Meanwhile, he appreciates that his parents are always tough on him. It ensures that he strives for excellence and never rests on his laurels.
In an interview, Bundee once shared, “I get a phone call every Monday after the games from the old man and mum, trying to tweak my game.”
This ongoing dialogue, filled with advice, constructive criticism, and support, has been instrumental in Bundee’s development as a rugby player.
Regardless, the family-orientated player holds his parents close to his heart. He also visits them whenever possible, as evident from his Instagram feed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who Are The Parents Of Bundee Aki?
Bundee Aki was born to parents Sautia & Hercules Aki on April 7, 1990, in Auckland, New Zealand.
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