At aged 13, Moses Leota left his family in Auckland and moved to Sydney’s west to chase his dream of becoming a professional rugby league player.
He worked at a car wash and lived in a caravan at the back of his uncle’s home, while trying to forge a career with the Penrith Panthers.
"I just felt like I was at the bottom and I was making my way up," Leota told SBS News.
"It really helped me stay grounded and to work hard for what I have now."
His life could have easily had a different trajectory.
Homesickness took its toll during his formative years.
“It was hard at first,” Leota admits.
“I used to have sleepless nights.
“There were times when I just wanted to go back but I really stuck through it and I stayed strong.”
Leota has never forgotten his roots, and rewarded his mother late last year with a surprise visit after the Panthers played the New Zealand Warriors in Auckland.
In a video shared online, the 23-year-old presented his Mum with keys to a new car.
“It felt like I accomplished my biggest goal in life,” Leota reflected.
“My mum obviously brought me into this world and if it wasn’t for her then I wouldn’t have the luxuries that I have now.
“When she needs it, I’m always there to give her a hand.”
Last October, Leota signed a lucrative three-year contract extension with the Panthers.
“I give thanks to the Penrith Panthers for giving me this opportunity to live my dream,” Leota said.
"It’s just all hard work, just keep working hard and I’ll get there.
“I think just do me, keep working hard and keep giving back to the community.”
Moses Leota with his two children, Aiva and Aria. Source: Supplied
Leota is supported everyday by his partner Stella and his two young girls Aiva and Aria.
Juggling being a professional athlete with fatherhood is proving challenging for him.
There are sleepless nights but he admits it’s all worth it.
“To have two kids, it really changes your perspective in life,” Leota said.
“My partner Stella, she’s been helping me out with that and it gives me the chance to perform at training.”
His performances on the field this year could be valuable as the Panthers seeks to claim its first NRL premiership since 2003.
