16 Jan 2014

Former NFL player to head American Samoa Youth and Women's Affairs

3:00 pm on 16 January 2014

A former National Football League player, Jonathan Fanene, has been named to head the Department of Youth and Women's Affairs in American Samoa.

The governor, Lolo Moliga, said at a cabinet meeting that because the Fono did not confirm the acting director Pa'u Roy Ausage's nomination, he has appointed Fanene to head the deparment instead.

Fanene stressed that he has only been appointed as acting director until the Fono gives its blessing, but he's humbled by the governor's appointment.

"I appreciate the opportunity the governor gave me and if it's confirmed then I'll do my best to do my job."

Fanene is a former defensive end with the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Tafuna High School graduate moved back to American Samoa last month with his wife Loralei Lafo Fanene and their two children following the passing of his father.