Vodafone Warriors prop Agnatius Paasi is well-known for his long, flowing locks.
He's been cultivating his hairstyle for four years now but it comes off in front of family and teammates at Mount Smart Stadium tomorrow (Tuesday, August 27) in support of the Shave for a Cure charity.
The cause is deeply personal for 27-year-old ‘Iggy’, whose aunt Ponisitia (Tia) Paasi, a former Black Ferns player from Wellington, died from cancer last year.
Paasi says he knows first-hand how cancer can affect families and why donations are critical for organisations that provide patients and families with support, like Leukaemia and Blood Cancer NZ (LBC).
“Aunt Tia was a big part of me getting into footy even though we played different codes,” he said.
“She was also a prop. She’d always have feedback for me after each game, whether I liked it or not!
“I have lots of really special memories of going down to Wellington to stay with her during school holidays. We were really close. She helped me a lot and I really respected and admired her and what she achieved with the Black Ferns. She was an awesome role model for me growing up.
“She was so private about her ill health and didn’t really talk about it. She was a real battler and was a really humble lady.
“Doing this in memory and honour of her and helping to raise money to help patients living with cancer, and support for their families, is something that means a lot to me.”
Paasi's Shave for a Cure launches a huge week for him as he looks forward to celebrating his 100th NRL career appearance when the Vodafone Warriors face South Sydney at Mount Smart Stadium on Friday (8.00pm kick-off).
Please give generously to Iggy RIGHT HERE.
