In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — World Rugby lowers legal tackle height in community rugby
2. RUGBY — Fijiana 7s duo Atelaite Buna and Verenaisi Bari return for Brumbies clash
3. RUGBY — Fiji Drua women’s interim coach Legge expects a bruising forward battle
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Nawaqanitawase reflects on bittersweet Origin debut
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Former league great accused of blocking star’s Israel Folau return
6. RUGBY — FRFU issues strong sanctions following abuse of match official
7. RUGBY — Fiji Rugby strengthens set-piece coaching through High-Performance workshop with George Skivington
8. RUGBY — PTSMC building a strong rugby culture through Passion, Perseverance and Community support
9. RUGBY — Barbarians pick Wallabies duo, Drua star Vakatawa for South Africa match
10. FOOTBALL — OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Puaikura FC
11. FOOTBALL — OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Henderson Eels FC
12. RUGBY — Nick Bloomfield and George Blake Re-Signed for Queensland Reds Front-row
13. ATHLETICS — World Athletics seeks to remove barriers for mom athletes
IRELAND – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
World Rugby lowers legal tackle height in community rugby
DUBLIN, 19 JUNE 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—World Rugby Council has approved adoption into full law a lower tackle height in community rugby, following positive trials over the last two years.
The law – allowing Unions to choose either waist or base of the sternum – will come into effect from 1 July 2026 for seasons that start after that date.
The decision, taken by Council in Dublin, Ireland, comes after extensive evaluation of trials run across 10 national member unions involving more than 150,000 studied tackles demonstrated positive player behavior.
The trials showed a lower legal tackle height was effective in reducing the chances of upright tackles occurring, which are the most likely to cause avoidable head impacts.
Unions will still have the ability to use Game On community law variations to adapt secondary laws in areas such as pick and go and double tackles.
The new community law will come into effect from 01 July for seasons beginning after that point.
Initial trials of a lower legal tackle height in elite rugby will take place at the World Rugby Junior World Championship which takes place in Georgia from 27 June.
World Rugby Council also voted to move a number of other successful trials into full law. These included:
*The scrum brake foot which reduces axial loading (pressure on heads and necks) in the scrum
*Restrictions on water carriers entering the field of play
*Confirming the role of the Television Match Official as a formal part of the officiating team
*Allowing elite competitions the option of using 20 minute red cards if they choose to.
The amendments will come into force from 1 July and the exact wording can be found on the World Rugby Laws section or world.rugby/laws.
Welcoming Council’s decision World Rugby Chairman Brett Robinson also thanked those unions whose work in trialing measures has led to their full adoption. Robinson said “Player welfare is at the heart of everything that rugby does. I welcome the adoption of a lower tackle height into community law. I would like to thank all the unions and academics and most importantly players and referees who took part in the trials that have helped us to reach this point.
“The trials from round the world show that this is the right thing to do to make our game safer and more enjoyable for community players who are the lifeblood of our sport. Rugby has always led the way when it comes to making changes considered changes to improve the welfare of our players and alongside provisions such as smart mouthguards in the elite game, we’ve shown time and again that we’ll make the big calls and that we’re getting them right, backed by the evidence.” …PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Fijiana 7s duo Atelaite Buna and Verenaisi Bari return for Brumbies clash
NADI, 19 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The return of Fijiana 7s stars Atelaite Buna and Verenaisi Bari strengthens a healthy McDonald’s Fijian Drua squad aiming to build a home fortress at 4R Stadium, Ba on Saturday.
The duo rejoins the side after international sevens commitments and has been named in the starting line-up.
Head coach Mike Legge said both players would add valuable experience to the team.
“We have slotted our sevens girls straight into the line-up. Both Buna and Bari will feature in this weekend’s game,” Legge said.
“They are an important part of what we’re trying to build here, even though they’ve come in later than the rest of the squad.
“Their experience from being part of this group and Fijiana in the past has helped them assimilate into everything pretty easily.
“We’re excited to see them run out this weekend and we’re hoping for big games from both.”
Legge said the Drua were in good shape heading into the match despite a minor injury concern during the week.
“We are actually going into this game quite healthy,” he said.
“We did suffer an injury on Tuesday to one of our players, but that hasn’t really impacted the team that’s running out on Saturday.
“We’ve got a clean bill of health and that is reflected in the selections.”
After claiming victory in their first home match of the season last week, Legge said the team hoped to turn Govind Park into a fortress.
“It was awesome. Everyone was excited and nervous, so it was good to get that first home game out of the way,” he said.
“We’re expecting quite a good crowd up in Ba, a loud crowd. Our supporters are the greatest in the world and they got us through that second half.”
The match kicks off at 2pm.The return of Fijiana 7s stars Atelaite Buna and Verenaisi Bari strengthens a healthy McDonald’s Fijian Drua squad aiming to build a home fortress at 4R Stadium, Ba on Saturday.
The duo rejoins the side after international sevens commitments and has been named in the starting line-up.
Head coach Mike Legge said both players would add valuable experience to the team.
“We have slotted our sevens girls straight into the line-up. Both Buna and Bari will feature in this weekend’s game,” Legge said.
“They are an important part of what we’re trying to build here, even though they’ve come in later than the rest of the squad.
“Their experience from being part of this group and Fijiana in the past has helped them assimilate into everything pretty easily.
“We’re excited to see them run out this weekend and we’re hoping for big games from both.”
Legge said the Drua were in good shape heading into the match despite a minor injury concern during the week.
“We are actually going into this game quite healthy,” he said.
“We did suffer an injury on Tuesday to one of our players, but that hasn’t really impacted the team that’s running out on Saturday.
“We’ve got a clean bill of health and that is reflected in the selections.”
After claiming victory in their first home match of the season last week, Legge said the team hoped to turn Govind Park into a fortress.
“It was awesome. Everyone was excited and nervous, so it was good to get that first home game out of the way,” he said.
“We’re expecting quite a good crowd up in Ba, a loud crowd. Our supporters are the greatest in the world and they got us through that second half.”
The match kicks off at 2pm….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Fiji Drua women’s interim coach Legge expects a bruising forward battle
NADI, 19 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Fiji Drua women’s interim coach Mike Legge expects a tough battle up front when his side faces the Brumbies in Round Three of the Super W competition at 4R Stadium, Ba, on Saturday.
The Drua edged the Western Force 29-24 last week, while the Brumbies upset the Queensland Reds 15-12 in their opening match.
Legge said the Brumbies were likely to adopt a similar approach to the Force.
He said Drua is preparing to counter the Brumbies’ forward-driven attack, with improved ruck play and stronger starts identified as the keys to securing a home victory.
“It’ll be a similar style to what the Force play, so we’re expecting them to probably try and attack us around the middle third of the field, just in and around the 12 and 13 channels,” Legge said.
“We’ve got some things in play that will counter that and, if we stick to them for the full 80 minutes, we’re hoping for a positive result.”
Legge said winning the collision battle would be crucial.
“We really need to front up in the collisions around the ruck, at set-piece time and even in our channels out wide,” he said.
“It’s been a focus for us this week and we just want to be consistent with our work around the breakdown.
“We believe we can be consistent for the full 80 minutes and we believe that will give us a positive result.”
Another key area of focus has been decision-making at the ruck and improving starts to matches.
“We got off to another poor start against the Force and, credit to the girls, they showed their resilience by coming back and getting the win,” Legge said.
“That’s been the biggest focus for us — our starts and our attention to detail around the ruck.”
The Drua take on the Brumbies at 2pm on Saturday….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Former league great accused of blocking star’s Israel Folau return
SYDNEY, 19 JUNE 2026 (AAP)—The wife of Israel Folau has accused Australian Rugby League commissioner and former great Wayne Pearce of blocking the cross-code international’s return to the NRL.
Maria Folau, a former New Zealand netball international, said her husband was set to play with Wests Tigers after being approached by coach Benji Marshall, before Pearce thwarted the signing.
The 37-year-old last played in the NRL in 2010, leaving for a brief failed stint in AFL and then switching to rugby and playing 73 Tests for the Wallabies.
In 2019 his multimillion-dollar deal was terminated by Rugby Australia following controversial homophobic social media posts.
Two years later St George Illawarra looked to sign Folau but withdrew the offer after backlash, while the ARLC also made it clear the player’s views didn’t align with the NRL’s “culture of inclusivity” and that it would not register his contract.
He has most recently been in Japan playing rugby union.
Maria posted on Instagram that Marshall contacted Folau about joining his team mid-season and was told it was “all good” for him to return to the code.
“Benji contacted Iz saying that he wanted Izzy to be a part of the West Tigers for the remainder of the season,” she said.
“Iz told Benji that he’d had to clear it with Peter V’landys because of what happened with the Dragons in 2021 with Izzy being blocked to play in the NRL.
“Benji said, yes, all good, that he had already cleared it with V’Landys and the Tigers board.
“Then about a week later, Benji called saying that he had hit a roadblock, that Peter had spoken to him saying that everyone has given the all clear but Wayne Pearce, who is on the Commission.
“His reasoning behind not wanting Izzy to play is because of inclusiveness … that it would be a bad look to have Izzy back in the game.”
She then claimed Wests Tigers still intended to lodge a contract for Folau but the board opted against it, saying it would be a “distraction” for the club.
Folau, who has also represented Tonga in rugby union, himself commented on her post, saying other players had been given a second chance.
“The double standard from the @nrl is crazy. The game talks about inclusion, yet my Christian beliefs were said to be a problem and didn’t align with their values. At the same time, players who’ve committed actual offences have been welcomed back. Make it make sense,” Folau wrote.
He had support from another former Wallabies star in Quade Cooper, who described the situation as ironic.
“The irony of inclusivity … excluding someone in the name of inclusion. You can’t claim to champion diversity while deciding who gets to participate. Make it make sense @nrl_weststigers,” Cooper said.
Marshall was recently asked about Folau, and while he didn’t deny interest, said the Tigers wouldn’t be recruiting the fullback.
“That’s the furthest thing from my mind, I need to get my team back on track,” Marshall said.
“I need to focus on what’s important right now … we’re not signing him.”…. PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Nawaqanitawase reflects on bittersweet Origin debut
MELBOURNE, 19 JUNE 2026 (AAP)—New NSW star Mark Nawaqanitawase has described his State of Origin debut as being up there with his feats in other codes.
The 25-year-old winger’s performance was a shining light for the Blues on a dark night for NSW at the MCG.
Nawaqanitawase finished with two tries and was arguably headed for player-of-the-match honours at halftime when the Blues led 12-8.
But NSW were helpless in the second-half as Queensland ran rampant to win 44-24 and send the series to a decider at Suncorp Stadium on July 8.
“A bit generous, I could have done a bit more, especially in that second half,” Nawaqanitawase said.
“Obviously a quality Queensland side to come out there in the second half, and they turned it on.”
Nawaqanitawase has played for the Sydney Roosters since late 2024, but previously represented Australia in rugby union and rugby sevens.
He has played in big Tests for the Wallabies, as well as playing at the Paris Olympics.
Nawaqanitawase said playing in front of a record State of Origin crowd was “up there” in comparison to everything else he has acheived in sport.
“Olympics is pretty cool,” he said.
“We had 90-odd thousand as well in the Stade de France.
“But just feeling the intensity in the crowd booing and cheering when things happen, it’s pretty cool to be involved in.
“It was definitely everything and more.”
Nawaqanitawase’s Roosters teammate Sam Walker stole the show, putting in a flawless kicking performance for Queensland.
“That’s two games now he’s done quality for the Maroons,” Nawaqanitawase said of Walker. “Just hope he brings it back to the Roosters.
“He’s an amazing player.
“When Cam (Munster) went off in that first half, he held the boys together so well.”…PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FRU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
FRFU Issues Strong Sanctions Following Abuse of Match Official
SUVA, 19 JUNE 2026 (FRU)——The Fiji Rakavi Football Union Limited (FRFU) confirms that a Judicial Committee hearing chaired by a World Rugby Judicial Officer was conducted on 16 June 2026 to consider serious incidents arising from the Vodafone Vanua Championship match between Tavua Rugby Union and Rewa Rugby Union.
Following consideration of the match reports, video evidence, witness statements and submissions presented at the hearing, the Judicial Officer found that two Tavua Rugby Union players had breached World Rugby Regulation 17, Law 9.28 relating to misconduct towards a Match Official. The offences involved verbal abuse, repeated disrespect of the authority of a Match Official and, in one instance, physical abuse of a Match Official.
The Judicial Officer determined that the conduct was serious, unacceptable and fundamentally inconsistent with the values of rugby. The conduct was also found to have had a significant psychological impact on the Match Official involved.
Jone Lewenilovo (Tavua Rugby Union) was found to have breached Regulation 17, Law 9.28 by verbally abusing and repeatedly disrespecting the authority of a Match Official. The Judicial Officer found that after being instructed to step away from the Match Official, the player continued to confront and verbally abuse the official both on and off the field. A total sanction of 31 weeks (7 months and 3 weeks) was imposed.
Gabrieli Ratu (Captain, Tavua Rugby Union) was found to have breached Regulation 17, Law 9.28 through both verbal and physical abuse of a Match Official. Having considered all evidence presented, including video footage, the Judicial Officer found on the balance of probabilities that the player physically abused the Match Official before continuing to verbally abuse the official. A total sanction of 52 weeks (1 year) was imposed.
The sanctions take immediate effect and have been accepted by Tavua Rugby Union.
In addition to their respective suspensions, both individuals are required to successfully complete an FRFU-supervised Anger Management Programme and attend a Level 1 Match Official Introduction Course as part of their rehabilitation. Neither individual will be eligible to participate in any rugby activity, in any capacity, until all rehabilitation requirements have been completed to the satisfaction of FRFU.
These sanctions are consistent with FRFU Circular No. 12 of 2026, issued this week to all affiliated Provincial Unions, reaffirming the Union’s Zero Tolerance Policy on abuse of Match Officials, assault, intimidation, threatening behaviour and field invasions.
The Circular reminds all participants that rugby is built on the core values of Respect, Integrity, Discipline, Solidarity and Passion, and that Match Officials are appointed to administer the Laws of the Game and must be afforded the highest level of respect at all times.
FRFU further reminds Provincial Unions, Team Management, Coaches, Captains and Players that they share responsibility for ensuring a safe and respectful match environment. This includes maintaining player discipline, controlling team personnel, managing spectator behaviour and ensuring the protection of Match Officials before, during and after matches.
Acting Chief Operations Officer Talemo Waqa said the sanctions send a clear message that abuse of Match Officials will not be tolerated at any level of the game.
“Match Officials are an essential part of rugby and deserve to perform their duties in a safe and respectful environment. These incidents fall well short of the standards expected in Fiji Rugby and have no place in our game.”
He continued saying, “We will continue to take firm action against any individual or organisation whose conduct threatens the welfare of Match Officials or undermines the integrity of rugby.”
FRFU reiterates its unwavering commitment to protecting Match Officials and preserving the integrity of the game. Abuse, intimidation, threats, harassment or physical misconduct directed towards Match Officials will be dealt with firmly and decisively.
The safety of Match Officials is non-negotiable. Any conduct that brings rugby into disrepute or undermines the values upon which the game is founded will attract serious disciplinary consequences….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FRU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Fiji Rugby strengthens set-piece coaching through High-Performance workshop with George Skivington
SUVA, 19 JUNE 2026 (FRU)—Fiji Rugby has taken another significant step in strengthening its coaching pathway and improving set-piece performance with the successful delivery of a three-day specialist training programme led by Gloucester Rugby Head Coach, George Skivington.
Held at Tanoa Skylodge Hotel from 15–17 June, the programme focused on developing coaching expertise in mauls, lineouts and scrummaging—areas identified as key components in enhancing Fiji Rugby’s competitiveness on the international stage. The workshop brought together five Regional Development Officers (RDOs), six Coach Educators and 44 union coaches from across the Western Division.
The initiative also reflects the longstanding relationship between Fiji Rugby and Gloucester Rugby, a partnership that spans several years and has created strong connections between the club and Fijian rugby.
Fiji Rugby Chief Executive Officer Koli Sewabu became the first Fijian to represent Gloucester during the 2001/02 season, a memorable campaign that saw the club win the Premiership title. Since then, several prominent Fijians have followed in his footsteps, including former Flying Fijians captain Akapusi Qera and Albert Tuisue, further strengthening the bond between the two rugby organisations.
Skivington, who currently serves as Head Coach of Gloucester Rugby in England’s professional rugby system, guided participants through a combination of classroom learning, video analysis, whiteboard sessions and practical on-field demonstrations.
The first two days focused on upskilling Fiji Rugby’s RDOs and Coach Educators in both defensive and attacking set-piece principles. Participants explored practical coaching methods and observed live training sessions involving the Fiji Under-20 Men’s team, providing valuable opportunities to analyse scrums, lineouts and mauls in a high-performance environment.
A highlight of the programme was the live observation of Fiji U20 training sessions at Ratu Navula College Ground and Namaka Public School Ground, where coaches were able to assess real-time decision-making, technique and execution before reviewing video footage and discussing improvement opportunities.
The final day expanded the programme’s reach, with 44 union coaches joining the workshop. Coaches representing Navosa, Nadroga, Malolo, Nadi, Lautoka, Yasawa, Ba and Tavua unions, along with representatives from Navosa Central School, Ba Provincial School and Jasper Williams High School, participated in the practical sessions.
In a demonstration of Fiji Rugby’s coach development model, the RDOs and Coach Educators took the lead in delivering the sessions, supported by live demonstrations from Nadi players while Skivington provided mentorship and technical feedback from the sidelines.
The programme delivered several key outcomes, including enhanced understanding of attacking and defensive set-piece principles, broader coaching capability across the unions, and increased confidence among coach developers to lead future training initiatives. Importantly, it also reinforced Fiji Rugby’s commitment to building sustainable coaching excellence from grassroots through to the high-performance level.
Fiji Rugby has identified set-piece efficiency as a critical area for continued growth, and initiatives such as this workshop play an important role in ensuring coaches across the country are equipped with the knowledge and tools required to develop the next generation of Fijian rugby talent.
As Fiji Rugby continues to invest in coach education and development, the knowledge shared during the three-day programme is expected to have a lasting impact throughout the national rugby pathway, strengthening the foundations of Fiji’s game from community rugby to the international arena while further deepening the valuable relationship between Fiji Rugby and Gloucester Rugby….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
PTSMC Building a Strong Rugby Culture Through Passion, Perseverance and Community Support
SUVA, 19 JUNE 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—For a school that only began its structured rugby journey a few years ago, Pt. Shreedhar Maharaj College (PTSMC) has already shown that determination and commitment can create opportunities for students beyond the classroom.
Speaking on the school’s involvement in rugby, teacher Kinisimere Sauturaga said PTSMC first entered rugby league in 2019, initially fielding boys’ teams before gradually expanding its programme to include girls’ rugby.
She recalled that the school’s rugby journey has had several memorable milestones, including the Under-15 rugby league team reaching the national quarter-finals in 2023. The school later expanded its involvement in rugby union, with its girls’ Under-16 team making a promising debut in 2025 and continuing into the Under-18 grade this year.
“Even though we are a small school, we believe we have the talent to compete. The girls showed great potential last year and that gave us confidence to continue building the programme,” Sauturaga said.
She emphasised that participation in rugby has positively influenced students, not only physically but academically and socially.
“Sports and education should go together. When students are involved in sports, it keeps them focused, disciplined and away from negative influences. It helps them grow as individuals.”
The growth of rugby has also contributed to improving the school’s image and attracting more students. Mrs Sauturaga noted that several players have earned opportunities to be identified for higher-level pathways and provincial teams.
She acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in transportation, equipment and funding. Unlike larger schools with stronger alumni and parent networks, PTSMC often relies on fundraising activities, donations and the dedication of teachers to support its teams.
Despite these obstacles, the school remains optimistic about the future, with plans for improved facilities, including a gym and multi-purpose court to help develop student-athletes.
“PTSMC has a lot of potential because there is a lot of talent in this area. With more support, resources and development opportunities, our students can achieve even more,” Sauturaga said.
She also expressed hope that Fiji Rugby could assist schools like PTSMC through coaching clinics, equipment support and development programmes to help strengthen grassroots rugby…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Barbarians pick Wallabies duo, Drua star Vakatawa for South Africa match
SYDNEY, 19 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Izack Rodda and Andrew Kellaway have been named for the Barbarians to face South Africa this week.
Kellaway was already confirmed to feature as part of the hit-out, selected on the wing.
He’ll be joined by former Wallabies teammate Izack Rodda, named on the bench.
Rodda is currently plying his trade for French second division team Provence, who recently lost their promotion match against Perpignan to join the Top 14.
The duo are joined by former France centre and Fijian Drua star Virimi Vakatawa.
Vakatawa was forced to retire from French side Racing 92 almost four years ago due to a heart problem, although a year later he controversially resumed his career with Bristol Bears.
Earlier this year, he joined the Drua franchise and last month, he was called up to the Fiji squad ahead of the inaugural Nations Championship.
Born in New Zealand but brought up in his parents’ homeland of Fiji, he was a France international in Sevens and then in rugby union between 2015 and 2022.
Having not played for France since 2022, he has now qualified to switch international allegiances.
He is one of a number of star names called up by the Babaas for the match at the Nelson Mandela Stadium in Gqeberha on Saturday.
Former New Zealand scrum-half TJ Perenara will captain the side while South African-born Scotland and British & Irish Lions international Duhan van der Merwe will line up on the wing.
Meanwhile, Force duo Franco Molina and Leonel Oviedo have both been named, with Drua centre Tuidraki Samusamuvodre on the bench.
“We are all really excited for Saturday afternoon. To play against the world champions in South Africa is an awesome opportunity,” said Scott Robertson, the former All Blacks head coach who will lead the Babaas.
“It’s a team packed with talent, guys who have come from all over the world and have a great chance to showcase their ability in Port Elizabeth.”
Barbarians (15-1): Warrick Gelant; Andrew Kellaway, Virimi Vakatawa, Alex Nankivell, Duhan van der Merwe; Tomas Albornoz, TJ Perenara (capt); Miracle Fai’ilagi, Guido Petti, Lachlan Boshier; Alex Moon, Franco Molina; D’Arcy Rae, Elliot Dee, Mayko Vivas,
Replacements: Leonel Oviedo, Oli Kebble, Pedro Delgado, Izack Rodda, Liam McConnell, Santiago Arata, Harry Plummer, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Puaikura FC
RAROTONGA, 19 JUNE 2026 (OFC)—Cook Islands champions Puaikura FC are set to make their long-awaited OFC Women’s Champions League debut, arriving in Honiara with confidence after winning the qualifying tournament earlier this year.
Daniel Taokia’s side secured their place at the 2026 tournament in Honiara after making home advantage count during the OFC Women’s Champions League – Qualifying round. They scored five goals with none conceded in their two matches, winning 2-0 against Tonga’s Nuhuhetulu FC and 3-0 against American Samoa’s PanSa FC.
Now stepping into their first-ever OFC Women’s Champions League main tournament, Taokia says preparation has been positive, despite disruptions caused by international duty and squad movement.
“The preparation has been great. We took a week break after qualifiers so players and management could have downtime with family. The restart was really good and everyone came back refreshed and ready to go again.” Taokia said.
“We did hit a disruption with 14 players part of our qualifiers campaign away with the national women’s team in New Zealand for FIFA friendlies. Of those 14, only eight will be available for Solomon Islands, plus six we have left here at home. But despite this, we remain positive and are looking forward to our debut in this tournament.”
Despite the challenge of limited continuity, Puaikura see opportunity in their unpredictability as they prepare to face more established opposition in Group B.
“As this is our first time competing, the advantage is that no one really knows much about our team,” said Taokia.
“But we are looking forward to the tournament and the opposition we will face.”
Puaikura’s squad blends youth and experience, with a number of players expected to play key roles in their debut campaign.
Among the players to watch is 13-year-old Primrose Savage, who impressed during qualifying with a fearless debut performance beyond her years. She is joined by experienced campaigners including captain Teupoko Tuariki, vice-captain Victoria Fatiaki, national representative Teretia Teinaki, and Auckland-based midfielder Rachel Head.
With momentum from qualifying, Puaikura FC will be aiming to make an immediate impression on the OFC stage with their first match against champions, Auckland United on the 30th June…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
OFC Women’s Champions League Team Profile: Henderson Eels FC
AUCKLAND, 19 JUNE 2026 (OFC)—After making history as the first Solomon Islands women’s club side to reach the OFC Women’s Champions League semi-finals, Henderson Eels FC return to Honiara determined to take another step forward on home soil.
The Solomon Islands champions have continued their rise on the continental stage since making their debut in 2024, when they recorded a memorable 2-0 victory over Avatiu FC in Honiara but narrowly missed out on progressing beyond the group stage.
12 months later in Tahiti, the Eels made history by becoming the first women’s club from the Solomon Islands to reach the semi-finals of the competition.
Head coach Godfrey Maneihioha believes the team enters this year’s tournament in a stronger position than previous campaigns.
“This year is a little bit kind to us,” Maneihioha said.
“For the 2024 and 2025 editions, we went straight into the OFC Women’s Champions League without any competitive matches for five to six months. This year, despite the cyclone and weather disruptions, we managed to train for eight weeks before our domestic league started, and by the time the tournament begins, we’ll have played six competitive league matches.
“That has been excellent for us in terms of seeing where we need to improve. Overall, our preparations have been good.”
Competing in a challenging Group A alongside the runner up from the past two years Hekari Women FC, Tafea FC and Ba Women FC, Henderson Eels know consistency and composure will be key if they are to reach the knockout stages once again.
“The main focus this year is to improve from 2025,” Maneihioha explained.
“We want to be more cohesive as a unit, more organised, and more aggressive and competitive. Overall, we want to do the basics right, stay calm and remain focused.”
Leading the team will be Solomon Islands women’s national team captain and star striker Ileen Pegi, one of a number of experienced players returning for another continental campaign.
While Henderson Eels will be without influential midfielder Madeline Arukau as she continues her recovery from a fractured collarbone, Maneihioha believes the experience within the squad will be invaluable.
“We will definitely miss Madeline’s contribution and how we want to play,” he said.
“Besides that, we have Ileen Pegi, who has participated in two previous OFC Women’s Championship -League championships, and players like Edith Nari and Dealyn Kali. The majority of this team will be taking part in their third OFC Women’s Champions League tournament, so the discussions have been about doing their best and using that experience in the competition.”
With plenty of home support behind them and a squad packed with Solomon Islands internationals, Henderson Eels FC will be aiming to build on last year’s breakthrough performance over the next few weeks in Honiara.
Henderson Eels FC begin their OFC Women’s Champions League 2026 campaign against Ba Women FC on Saturday 27 June….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
Nick Bloomfield and George Blake Re-Signed for Queensland Reds Front-row
BRISBANE, 19 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Nick Bloomfield and George Blake have been re-signed as the Queensland Reds continue to bolster their front-row strength.
The Queensland Rugby Union is today pleased to announce the Queensland pathway products will continue their development as props at Ballymore.
Bloomfield, 22, has made significant strides as a young, athletic tighthead prop and started four of his seven games in Swyftx Super Rugby Pacific this season.
Playing 12 times over the past two seasons as Red #1410 is just the start for the 115kg prop who has added 4kg to his frame over that period.
“I had a really good experience this year in terms of understanding what it’s like at Super Rugby level,” Bloomfield said.
“I got to scrum against top Kiwi props like Xavier Numia and Wallabies like Tom Robertson. At Reds training, I get to scrum against a Test prop in Aidan Ross and pick up ideas and techniques.
“It’s all a good wake-up to how much work you need to do to succeed consistently at this level.”
The Churchie product is relishing what is ahead with a two-year deal signed through 2028.
“I know how much it means to play for the Reds and I’m excited to be here for the next two years. The front-row room in general is very competitive at the club and it only makes each of us a better player,” Bloomfield said.
“Often, the best feedback you can get is from the opposition loosehead. Aidan is always direct with his feedback so to get his knowledge all the time is valuable.”
Assistant coach Zane Hilton remains in charge of the scrum with his expertise.
“’Choc’ has set up a clear road map to fix and build areas of my game. One of his strengths is individualising feedback and training for each prop because he understands we all do things slightly differently,” Bloomfield said.
Fellow prop Blake, 25, has re-signed for 2027. He had his most fruitful Super Rugby Pacific campaign in 2026. His role in 11 games at loosehead has built his Reds career to 31 games since his debut in 2023 as Red #1383.
“It was definitely a confidence booster knowing the coaches had that belief in me,” Blake said of the 2026 Super Rugby season.
“This season, I feel I’ve made improvements in getting around the field more for involvements away from doing my job at the set piece.
“I’m real excited to keep playing for the Reds. Queensland is home.”
A product of The Southport School, Blake also singled out teammate Ross and coach Hilton as valuable sources of information for his position.
“You keep learning as a prop. Little things I’ve picked up from Aidan I try to implement into my own game. ’Choc’ has a real focus on doing the little things well to make the big things work.”
Blake was a member of Bond University’s history-making premiership team last year and will be a valuable addition for the Bull Sharks in coming weeks in the Sumo Energy Hospital Cup.
Sam Cordingley, Reds General Manager, High Performance, said strength and depth in the front-row was an essential building block for the Reds.
“Nick and George both show the benefits of years of consistent development through our Queensland rugby system,” Cordingley said.
“Both earned considerable opportunities in Super Rugby Pacific this year and can take that confidence and experience into the future.
“We are delighted to have re-signed two very good young props.”….PACNEWS
MONACO – ATHLETICS: INSIDE THE GAMES PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 19 Jun 2026
World Athletics seeks to remove barriers for mom athletes
MONACA, 19 JUNE 2026 (INSIDE THE GAMES)—Track and field’s governing body launched the ‘Childbirth And Return in Elite Sport’ project on Tuesday to protect female competitors and reduce inequities through scientific research and policy development.
“We are continually looking for ways to make our sport even more equitable, and the ‘CARES’ project is the next step in ensuring athletes who experience pregnancy are protected, receive support, and do not face barriers when it comes to being able to make a return to elite athletics,” said World Athletics President Sebastian Coe.
As part of the ‘CARES’ project, the federation is calling for female athletes – both those who have experienced pregnancy and those who have not – to complete one of two surveys, which are being conducted in collaboration between the Health and Science and Competition departments of World Athletics, with direct input from the World Athletics Athletes’ Commission.
“It is important that our athletes are the driving force behind this. The responses generated by these surveys and the associated analysis of performance metrics is vital to this project, to inform future action,” stressed Coe.
The first survey is intended for female athletes who experienced pregnancy on or after 1 January 2019 during their elite athletics career, regardless of whether the pregnancy resulted in childbirth. This survey collects information on pregnancy and, where applicable, childbirth and return to sport, including perceived barriers and facilitators, professional and organisational support, contractual and financial considerations, and possible ways to support world rankings during maternity leave. This part of the project is integrated by a retrospective analysis of the World Athletics database, including performance metrics, providing new data and novel scientific insights.
The second survey is intended for elite female athletes who have not experienced pregnancy. It focuses on perceptions of organisational support, maternity-related governance, and possible ranking-policy mechanisms.
“I am really proud to see World Athletics taking a leading role in encouraging research and more open dialogue about what it means to be a mother and an athlete,” said World Athletics Athletes’ Commission Chair Valerie Adams.
“When I started my career, you didn’t want to tell your sponsors if you got pregnant because you might get dropped. By the time I retired – as a mother of two – we’re seeing more female athletes coming back from having kids and performing at an elite level. I hope that the work being done in this space will further inspire female athletes to not only plan their sporting career, but also plan their life,” the two-time Olympic champion in shot put added.
Adam’s fears are not unfounded. Several athletes have seen sponsorships dropped or reduced after announcing their pregnancies, including elite marathon runner Emma Bates and Allyson Felix, the most decorated American in Olympic track and field history.
The 11-time Olympic medallist’s contract with her sponsor Nike was reduced by 70 percent because of her pregnancy in 2018. She went on to build her own brand of athletic wear for women. Her own experience with discrimination has powered her advocacy work, campaigning for policy changes and even launching a child care initiative for athlete moms.
Felix was also behind the first-ever Olympic Village nursery, which launched at the Paris 2024 Summer Games. Olympian moms were given access to private spaces for breastfeeding, a family lounge for playtime and a changing station. Now a mother of two, the legendary sprinter plans to continue racing. She recently announced that she was coming out of retirement, with an eye on the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028….PACNEWS
