BYU’s running back Sione Moa has had a rough ride lately—pain, setbacks, and, somehow, a triumphant return to the field. From a brutal leg injury to a recovery that probably felt endless, Moa’s story is a wild mix of grit, support, and a bit of luck.
Let’s dig into what happened, how he clawed his way back, and what might be next for both him and BYU football.
Sione Moa’s Harrowing Injury
Last September, during a game against East Carolina, Sione Moa took a hit so bad he wasn’t sure he’d ever walk right again. Forget football—he was just hoping to avoid permanent damage.
The hit led to acute compartment syndrome, which, if you know anything about it, is every athlete’s nightmare. His right thigh ballooned up, and the pain was apparently off the charts.
The Immediate Aftermath
On the flight back from Greenville, things just kept getting worse. Ibuprofen didn’t touch the pain or swelling.
By the time Moa got home, his leg was numb and swollen. That landed him in the hospital fast. BYU’s medical team acted quickly, and a fasciotomy saved both his leg and, honestly, his football career.
The Road to Recovery
Getting back was anything but simple. Doctors first said he’d be out two to four weeks, but that was wishful thinking—complications stretched it to 12 weeks.
The process was rough, physically and mentally. Moa leans on his wife, who’s a nurse, and the BYU community. He says he couldn’t have made it through without them.
Challenges and Setbacks
He tried to come back early for the Big 12 championship game, but that backfired. Another injury benched him again.
That experience forced him to rethink things. He admits he learned a lot about patience and listening to his body (and, maybe, his wife).
Returning to the Field
Now, after months of rehab, Moa’s back at spring practice and getting close to full strength. He says he feels 80 to 90% like his old self.
It’s good timing, too. LJ Martin, another running back, is recovering from shoulder surgery, so Moa’s getting more reps than usual.
Coaches’ Confidence
Head coach Kalani Sitake and offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick aren’t shy about their faith in Moa. They’re pretty sure that once Moa and Martin are healthy, BYU will have one of the best backfields in the Big 12.
Roderick points to Moa’s strong start last season—before the injury—as proof of what he brings to the team.
Looking Ahead
This whole ordeal has changed Moa, not just as a player but as a person. Off the field, he’s working on a business management degree at BYU’s Marriott School of Business.
His parents always told him to have a backup plan, and he’s taking that to heart. Moa’s persistence and attitude have made him a bit of a role model, at least around Provo.
Community and Inspiration
During recovery, Moa found real comfort in BYU’s “True Blue Hero” program, which honors fans going through tough times. Attending those events helped him keep things in perspective.
He says it reminded him how much community matters when you’re struggling. Sometimes, that’s what gets you through.
Conclusion
Sione Moa’s story hits hard. It’s a real look at the hurdles athletes face and the grit it takes to get back up.
Bouncing back from a tough injury, then eyeing a return to the field—there’s something about that kind of resilience. It’s not just about him, either; you get the sense it matters to the whole BYU community.
If you want to dig deeper into Moa’s journey or check out the latest with BYU football, the original article’s over at Deseret Sports.
- Schools Covered
- College Football Articles
- Men's College Basketball Articles
- Men's College Soccer Articles
- Women's College Basketball Articles
- Olympic Athlete Articles
- Men's College Baseball Articles
- College Sports Media Professionals Articles
- Hall of Fame Member Articles
- Former College Player Articles
- Game Previews
