A Second Family

SEATTLE - When Tanumaleu Noa first stepped onto O’Dea High School's campus, he felt an unexpected warmth. Known to his friends as “Tanu,” the junior transfer wasn’t just beginning a new school year—he was stepping into a brand-new chapter of his life. Something about 802 Terry Avenue, home of the Fighting Irish, immediately gave him a sense of belonging. 

“When I transferred, everyone greeted me right away. I felt welcomed by everyone,” Noa recalled.  

The transition could have been difficult, but O’Dea’s close-knit community quickly made him feel at ease. That family atmosphere, rooted in the school’s traditions, gave him confidence that he had made the right choice. 

Coming from Sammamish High School, Noa immediately noticed the difference. 

 “At O’Dea, they want you to know there are expectations to support your growth and success,” he explained.  

From the start, he understood that O’Dea demanded more from him, but in the best possible way. Whether in the classroom or on the athletic field, the message was clear: work hard, push yourself, and live up to the school’s standards of excellence. 

Academically, teachers at O’Dea are committed to more than simply assigning lessons. They challenge their students to think critically, to take ownership of their future, and to develop into men of character.  

The same mindset extends into athletics. On the football field, O’Dea is a powerhouse program with a reputation for discipline and intensity. Noa, with his size, strength, and determination, was eager to contribute. Playing as a defensive lineman, he quickly found a role where his physicality and work ethic stood out. 

Beyond football, Noa sharpens his skills through rugby with the Eastside Lions, a team that has helped him build toughness, endurance, and competitiveness. Balancing two demanding sports isn’t easy, but he sees it as preparation for the higher levels he dreams of reaching. 

For Noa, transferring to O’Dea has proven to be one of the best decisions he has made. The balance of strong academics, elite athletics, and a values-driven culture is shaping him not just as a player, but as a young man. His ambitions are clear: “My goal with football would be to go to a Division I college and potentially go to the NFL,” he said. 

Ambitions like these require sacrifice, discipline, and resilience. The journey will not be easy, but Noa embraces the challenge. He draws strength from his family, from the brotherhood at O’Dea, and from his own determination. Looking forward, he welcomes the trials, lessons, and opportunities ahead. Fueled by purpose, Noa is not only pursuing his dreams—he is laying the foundation to achieve them.