Domata Peko: A Long But Worthy Journey
9/9/2005 12:00:00 AM | Football
Sept. 9, 2005
By Danielle Ruman, MSU Sports Information
Surf boards, beaches and plenty of sun - that's not exactly what one would call a "football" environment. But the United States territory of American Samoa is beginning to emerge with top football players around America - including three at Michigan State.
How does someone from 7,400 miles away from the land of the Green and White end up playing at Spartan Stadium? For senior Domata Peko, it was a matter of following his heart.
"When I was younger, I never pictured myself playing `big time' football," said the defensive tackle. "In Samoa, playing football is like getting a ticket off the island."
According to ESPN.com, nearly 200 American Samoans are currently playing Division I football with an estimated 28 extending their career into the NFL. Samoans see football as a game that can help fulfill their goals and help their families. Samoan boys are even estimated at being 40 times more likely to make it to the NFL than an American.
Peko, an obvious natural, didn't even begin playing until his senior year of high school but was quickly picked up by College of the Canyons in Santa Clarita, Calif., before being recruited by Spartans' head coach John L. Smith.
After a visit by the Spartans' defensive coordinator Chris Smeland, Peko packed his bags and traveled the 16-hour plane ride to East Lansing to take a look at what would become his new home. His older brother Tupe, who played for MSU in 1999-2000, offered a few, but strong words of advice to his younger brother throughout his recruiting process.
"He told me to stay true to my heart," explained Peko. "When I came to Michigan State, I loved how the players and coaches really accepted me. I felt like this was the place where I needed and wanted to be." Hailing from a once rugby-crazed territory, Samoan's are known to be fierce warriors, which makes Peko a perfect fit for the Spartans' defense.
"When I am out there, I am not just playing for my team," commented Peko. "I'm playing for all of America Samoa."
American Samoa's population reaches close to 64,000 people and encompasses a mere 76 square miles of land. That being said, it's no wonder the 6-2 Samoan native was a little nervous playing in front of a crowd larger than his entire island.
"In Samoa, you never have that many people watching you play," said Peko. "I get nervous at first, but after your first hit on the field you feel right back at home. The support we have inside Spartan Stadium really pumps you up."
Located about halfway between the waters of Hawaii and New Zealand, America Samoa is staged in the beautiful Polynesian region of the South Pacific. Samoan's are known for their humbleness, hard work and respect.
"When we had our team autograph day, I had people telling me how much they enjoyed themselves when they were in Samoa," commented Peko. "It's nice to hear that. What the Americans should know about the Samoan culture is that we are very respectful people, especially to our elders."
As one can imagine, the most difficult change came when Peko had to adjust to the Midwest climate. Though a Michigan winter is cold enough, imagine adjusting from an environment where your average winter temperature was in the upper 80's. The lush tropical climate of Pago Pago was something Peko had to leave behind. However, he embraced his new climate with an open mind and discovered what most youngsters like doing in the winter.
"My first winter here was freezing," said Peko. "It was my first time to see snow; I even made a snow angel and a snow man!" Despite his limited enjoyment of the blistering Michigan winter, Peko was able to survive the freezing temperatures and continue to work hard during the off-season in order to garnish top honors as a starter for the 2005 season.
Peko's family was fortunate enough to see him play once last year when the team played in Hawaii last December, but they have plans on becoming regulars in Spartan Stadium.
"My parents are trying to come to all of my games since it's my last year to play college ball," said Peko. "I am really excited to be able to play in front of them."
Peko, who majors in sociology, also looks forward to being able to speak his native Samoan tongue while his family is in town. He admits he also enjoys teaching others about the `Samoan Way' as well. A popular phrase you may hear the young Samoan utter reminds him to stay focused.
"My favorite Samoan phrase is Mua Mua Leatua," said Peko. "It means to put God first."
With a humble yet focused mind and attitude, Peko's experience of playing Division I football has been an example to both Samoan and American young boys. Accrediting his success to going after his dreams, believing in himself and knowing that with God, all things are possible, Peko advises young players to listen to their heart.
"You have to put your mind to it and follow your heart," said Peko. "Don't ever say you can't do something, because you can."
