Francis Poipoi LeotaLEOTA, Francis Poipoi 1989 - 90 - Kiwi #618 nzleague.co.nz is a New Zealand rugby league player who represented New Zealand between 1989 and 1990, including in games that counted towards the 1992 World Cup.
Early years Leota attended De La Salle College and played rugby union until he was 20.Lion Red 1989 Rugby League Annual New Zealand Rugby League, p.12
Playing career Leota was an Otahuhu Leopards junior, in the Auckland Rugby League competition. He originally played on the wing until he moved into the second row in 1987. He was an Auckland representative and played in three Test matches for the New Zealand national rugby league team between 1989 and 1990. He was a New Zealand Residents representative in 1990 and 1992.Otahuhu Rovers Rugby League Football and Sports Club Inc Auckland Rugby League
Leota played for the Sheffield Eagles between 1989 and 1991 and also represented the Salford City Reds in England.Lions inspired by crafty Fox The Independent, 9 July 1992
In 1993 Leota won the Rothville Trophy for Otahuhu, which is awarded to the ARL's player of the year. Also in 1993 Leota played for Auckland and represented an Otago Invitational XIII that played the New Zealand Māori side.Lion Red Rugby League Annual 1993, New Zealand Rugby Football League, 1993. p.213
In 1994 Leota played for the Waikato Cougars in the new Lion Red Cup.Lion Red Rugby League Annual 1994, New Zealand Rugby Football League, 1994. p.114 He played for the champion Counties Manukau Heroes in 1996.New Zealand National Premiership 1996 The Vault
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