NEWCASTLE FALCONS have led the tributes to dual-code rugby international, Va’aiga Tuigamala, who has died at the age of 52.

Tuigamala, known as ‘Inga the Winger’, played for the All Blacks and Samoa in rugby union, and also played for Samoa in rugby league, a sport that saw him form part of the all-conquering Wigan team from the early 1990s.

After enjoying sustained success with Wigan, winning a Premiership title, two Challenge Cups and two Regal Trophies during his three years with the club, Tuigamala joined Newcastle Falcons as rugby union headed into a new world of professionalism.

He moved to Kingston Park from Wigan in 1997 for a world-record fee, and helped Falcons win the 1997-98 Premiership title at the first attempt following their promotion to the top-flight the previous season.

He also helped Newcastle win the Tetley’s Bitter Cup final at Twickenham, and made more than 100 appearances for the club during his five years in the North-East.

A Newcastle Falcons statement said: “Inga joined the Falcons for a world record transfer fee in 1997 from Wigan rugby league club – a record which stood for decades.

“Helping the Falcons win the 1997-98 Premiership title at the first attempt after the promotion the year before – still the only team to achieve this remarkable feat – Tuigamala went on to help the club lift the 2001 Tetley’s Bitter Cup final.

“Inga also distinguished himself on the international stage, playing for both New Zealand and Samoa. In rugby league, he helped Wigan to win the World Club Championship as well as multiple domestic leagues and cups, but it was as much for his infectious smile and friendship that he was loved by all.

“Rugby, and the world in general, has lost a great man. Our thoughts and prayers are with your loved ones. Rest in peace, Inga.”

Tuigamala played provincially for Auckland before switching codes by signing for Wigan in January 1994. As well as his domestic successes, he helped Wigan beat Brisbane Broncos in the World Club Challenge.

A Wigan Warrriors statement posted on Twitter said: “This morning, Wigan Warriors are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic news that former player Va’aiga (Inga) Tuigamala has passed away.

“Wigan Warriors send their deepest condolences to the family and friends at this awful time.”

Another former dual-code international and Wigan team-mate Jason Robinson led the tributes to Tuigamala.

He tweeted: “Absolutely heartbroken! I owe so much to this amazing man! Literally helped change my life when he came to Wigan Warriors from NZ. Sending all my love and condolences to the family at such a sad time. RIP brother.”

Former England international and Falcons team-mate Jamie Noon tweeted: “(He was) one of the best. He’d say, give me it early and follow me. I think I top scored that season, but he made everyone around him look good. Loved playing with him.”

Another former Falcons, Tom May, added: “He was the best. This week has been tough for all those who knew either Blackie (Steve Black). And now Inga. He did so much for me, took all of us under his wing, looked after us and helped us.”

Tuigamala became a funeral director after retiring from rugby, prompted by the death of ten of his friends in 2003. He ran a funeral company, Tuigamala & Sons, in West Auckland and organised the funeral of the late king of Tonga, Taufa’ahau Tupou IV.