Troy Polamalu, a former professional football player who played in the NFL for 12 years, was born to Suila and Aoatoa Polamalu. His mother, Suila, was a part of Troy’s life and had a big impact on his upbringing and profession.
He was raised in a big household, the youngest of five siblings. Troy Polamalu is a retired American professional football player best remembered for his 12-year career as a safety with the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. Polamalu is from Garden Grove, California, and went to Douglas High School in Winston, Oregon, where he excelled at football.
Despite suffering a season-ending injury in his senior year, he left an indelible impact on the field, demonstrating his abilities in a variety of sports, including baseball and basketball. Later, he played collegiate football for the USC Trojans and was named a first-team All-American. In the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers picked him. Throughout his career, he made substantial contributions to the Steelers’ success, playing a key part in their two Super Bowl victories.
Meet Troy Polamalu’s parents, Father Aoatoa and Mother Suila
He is from a Samoan family with origins in Garden Grove, California. His mother, Sheila Polamalu, raised him and his brothers as a single parent after his father abandoned the family when Troy was four years old. Troy Polamalu’s father, Aoatoa, was a collegiate footballer. He earned a reputation for himself in college football as the nose tackle for the 1986 Penn State squad, which won the national title against Miami.
Sakaio, Suila and Troy’s elder brother, ran into legal problems and had a difficult life after leaving his family. Despite their difficult circumstances, Troy and Sakaio found consolation in playing football together. They were continuously playing against one another. Troy’s life changed when he spent three weeks with his aunt and uncle in Tenmile, Oregon when he was eight. He was inspired by the pleasant surroundings and expressed a wish to live there permanently.
When he was nine years old, his mother sent him to live with his uncle, aunt, and cousins in Oregon to shield him from any harmful influences in Los Angeles. Troy attributes his rigid upbringing to his uncle, Salu, who had an important influence in forming his personality.
Polamalu’s Football Family
Polamalu hails from a football family. His father was a collegiate football player who ultimately chose a different profession. Similarly, Kennedy Polamalu, his father’s uncle, played fullback at USC and helped the Trojans win the Rose Bowl in 1985. Kennedy became a coach after finishing his playing career.
Additionally, Nick Sualua, Polamalu’s cousin, played fullback at Ohio State. He was instrumental in blocking for Heisman Trophy winner Eddie George in 1995. As a result of his multi-generational football pedigree, Troy Polamalu’s extraordinary athletic exploits brought enormous pride to his family.
