MiscStorm Fa’agata-Tufuga

As one of the Utah Stingers’ youngest members, Storm Fa’agata-Tufuga already has an impressive resume; playing for the US Men’s Junior National Team, competing in the 2014 NORCECA Men’s U21 Continental Championships, and serving as a key player for BYU from 2017-2019. In addition to his volleyball prowess, and prior to all of those accolades, Storm was  an accomplished track-and-field athlete, competing in the 100m, long jump, and high jump. With the two sport seasons, volleyball and track, coinciding in Spring, Storm eventually had to make a decision on his future. He eventually chose volleyball after some encouragement from his family and friends, and he has definitely reaped the benefits of that decision. 

 

As a two-time League Champion at Lakewood Highschool, Storm never had an offseason, spending summers training at the beach with his dad during the day and then playing at open gyms in the evenings. His hard work paid off as he helped lead his SCVC team to a second-place finish in the 2013 Junior National Championships.

 

After a standout high school and club career, Storm attended BYU where, during his first two years, he traveled to Retalhuleu, Guatemala, for his mission of service. When he returned, he was a consistent starter for the powerhouse NCAA Men’s program, having his best year in 2018 where he racked up 194 kills. Sadly, Storm was forced into an early medical retirement before his final season of eligibility, taking some time to recover before deciding to play again and joining the Stingers. Since taking his mission trip early, Storm still has two years left of school despite no longer playing with the Cougars.

 

“College has been amazing but also very challenging. I love my degree in Exercise and Wellness,” Fa’agata-Tufuga commented.

 

Since the pandemic, Storm has maintained a relaxed and laid-back lifestyle focusing on school and spending time with the family. His quarantine activities have included playing Rugby with the family, listening to music, watching anime, and some clips of his favorite player Yuki Ishikawa on the Japan Men’s National Team. Be sure to catch Storm and the rest of the Utah Stingers on the court this season!