Philadelphia Eagle Soars as He Puts the Lord First

Laekin Vakalahi always knew that putting the Lord first in his life would shape his future.  He has always loved playing sports, especially rugby and basketball. 

As a young man he did not play sports on Sundays, as a rule, and he enjoyed participating in his local congregation’s worship services and youth activities, including Seminary, a before-school scripture class each day,

He had an opportunity to play rugby professionally but in 2021 he decided to serve a full-time mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the New Zealand Wellington Mission.

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Laekin said, “I decided to put God first and serve a mission and then leave things in His hands.”

In 2023, Laekin’s parents and four brothers were on holiday in Hawaii when they met a scout from the Philadelphia Eagles National Football League team.

The scout was impressed with the stature and strength of the four brothers and asked if they had ever played American football.

The parents said, “No, but you really should see the size of our older son who is serving a mission in New Zealand. He is 6’ 5” (196 cms.) tall and weighs 320 (165 kgs.) pounds.”

The Eagles’ scout was so impressed with the stats and photos that he arranged, with Laekin’s mission president to have Laekin do a workout in Wellington while the scout observed.

Always concerned about staying on task and following mission rules, Laekin became creative about getting all the scout’s assignments completed.

 For example, he demonstrated his ability to lead by recording a class he taught in a Zone Conference.  The Eagles were impressed with his honesty, character, and obedience in following the mission rules.

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Following the completion of his mission, he worked closely with the scout on football fundamentals and had an official tryout with the team.

In April 2024, the Philadelphia Eagles signed Laekin to a three-year contract as an international developmental player.

Laekin said, “When you are playing at such a high level you could have a lot of pride or ego, but we need to remember that we are all equal in the eyes of God. Everyone needs to treat people the same, no matter who they are. Praying, reading my scriptures, and listening to Church music helps me to stay connected and grounded.”

Following his football career, Laekin hopes to have his university degree and a career in the film and video industry.