Cultural collaboration gives Mustangs senior large worldview

A servant's heart – ingrained.

Sione Tuifua understands that part of his personality along all life's levels. A mother hailing from America Samoa, a father who was native to Tonga, and a family that lives in Barrow, Alaska, have given him an extensive view of the world and its needs.

"My dad is a pastor, so the church and the lessons learned are a big part of my background," the senior admitted. "It's been told to me many times that being a blessing to others is the best thing you can strive for, which includes doing something for others without expecting anything in return."

When Morningside University head football coach Steve Ryan plans a mission trip or discusses a potential community service initiative his team could tackle, Tuifua, in many cases, is at the front of the line to help organize it. He's been on team work trips to Uganda, Wisconsin, and the Dominican Republic. He has also volunteered his time towards projects for the local Miracle League and humane society, among a rich resume of service work.

"I've been part of projects like that since I was seven to eight years old," he reflected. "It's something that has been and will always be part of my life."

"Honestly, it's one of the best parts of being in the football program," he added. "When you do these things together, you get to know one another. I feel like our on-field chemistry is bolstered by these projects, as it promotes strong team chemistry."

Among his favorite community service initiatives is something that occurs in his hometown twice a year. The townspeople practice subsistence whaling, ensuring the entire mammal is used to benefit each person who needs something.

"In the fall and winter each year, a whale is brought to the old airport runway in town and butchered," Tuifua said. "It's a big celebration in giving it out to community members."

He wanted that type of camaraderie when he chose a college. He and his family didn't realize it then, but the answer was in his hometown. Barrow High School head coach Chris Battle had a friend down in the contiguous 48 in Coach Ryan. 

"Coach Battle played for him in college," he said. "I'd never heard of Morningside, but our family and I trusted his thoughts about the school and the football team."

"When I first got to Sioux City, I thought it could be tough," he added. "I'm a family person and would be a long way away from them. It's also pretty hot down here. However, after a few days, the guys on the team became my brothers. They're the people I want to be at my wedding someday. They made the transition easy."