In this bulletin:
1. FOOTBALL — Tahiti and New Zealand pick up wins as both sides head for the semi-finals
2. FOOTBALL — We gave our best: Franklin
3. FOOTBALL — CIFA confirms U14 girls academy squad for New Zealand McCartney Tournament
4. RUGBY — Australian Sevens to host Friday night festival of Rugby
5. RUGBY — Canada turn focus to Flying Fijians after heavy Japan loss
6. RUGBY — USA Eagles brace for tough Japan test
7. NETBALL — Battle for the Oceania Netball World Cup spots begins in Tonga next week
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘New levels’: Pacific to reap rewards from MCG NFL game
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — The PNG Chiefs – a country’s shot at the big time
10. CRICKET — Road to ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup continues in Vanuatu
11. RUGBY — Cornish joins Drua development
12. FOOTBALL — A Special Week of Football in Port Vila
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Tahiti and New Zealand pick up wins as both sides head for the semi-finals
APIA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — Tahiti have booked a semi-final spot at the OFC U-19 Men’s Championship, with their victory over Fiji and New Zealand’s win later in the day sealing their place.
A draw would have sufficed for Fiji, following their win over Vanuatu, whilst Tahiti needed all three points to keep their campaign alive.
It was an opening half low on chances, with Fiji making much of the early running. Jovesa Uqe had the clearest opening after 15 minutes, but dragged his effort wide of the far post having been fed by Bula FC’s Ryan Naresh.
Naresh himself had a chance later in the half, but fired his effort from distance over the bar when he should have tested Tahiti goalkeeper Titouan Courtois.
Tahiti threatened only intermittently but it was they who would make the breakthrough shortly before half-time
A neat through ball from Keahinui Brown found Elias Jamet and the forward prodded his effort past goalkeeper Usaia Tamaniqio, who despite his best efforts, couldn’t stop the ball crossing the line.
Ibraheem Afazal had a wonderful chance to level the scores soon after the break but was denied by a fine save from Courtois.
Their was a notable uptick in performance from Fiji in the second-half and Maikah Dau was next to go close, flashing an effort narrowly wide of the post.
Dau then had a well-struck free-kick from range that beat the wall but was well held by Courtois as Marika Rodu’s side began to turn the screw.
Fiji continued to press but to their credit, Tahiti’s defence stood firm. Courtois producing a couple of comfortable saves to keep the scores level.
Just seven minutes of regular time was left when Fiji were caught on the break. Nathan Scavazza drove past substitute Manasa Kubucaucau and drew a rash tackle just inside the box, with referee David Yareboinen pointing to the spot.
Captain Tauhiki Bohl took the penalty, comfortably sending Tamaniqio the wrong way and doubling his side’s lead – putting them in the box seat for a semi-final place.
There was more pain to come for Fiji, when Semi Natinavou was shown a red card following a fracas between the players. Tahiti’s Scavazza was also dismissed as the match ended ten versus ten.
Abdullah Khairati fired in a fantastic late goal for Fiji, but it proved to be nothing more than a late consolation.
Tahiti: 2 (Elias JAMET 45+7′, Tauhiki BOHL (P) 86′)
Fiji: 1 (Abdullah KHAIRATI 90+13′)
HT: 1-0
New Zealand made it three wins from three to finish their group stage campaign, with a devastating second-half performance against Vanuatu in the day’s later fixture.
The Kiwis were already assured of a semi-final spot and boasted a strong starting eleven, with OFC Pro League talents Eli Jones, Van Fitzharris and Dejaun Naidoo all in the line-up. Vanuatu meanwhile, needed all three points if they were to advance to the final four.
As expected, the defending champions enjoyed the majority of possession in the first-half, but Vanuatu posed considerable threat on the counter, with their pace and power a cause for concern in the New Zealand backline.
Oliver Grosso had the ball in the back of the net early on, only to be denied by the offside flag. Gabriel Sloane-Rodrigues then produced a solid save from Vanuatu goalkeeper Jesse Thomas with a low drive.
Waisea Henry was forced off, replaced by Bailey Ferguson and the substitute went close with a curled effort that narrowly passed Thomas’ right-hand post.
There were ten minutes remaining in the first-half when New Zealand finally found their breakthrough. Grosso was released down the right-hand flank and his low cross was finished from close range by Sloane-Rodrigues to open the scoring.
Van Fitzharris had the ball in the net shortly after but again the assistant referee deemed the forward had moved too early.
Grosso would add a goal to his assist in first-half stoppage time, capping a lovely team move. Bailey Ferguson played the ball into Van Fitzharris, who produced a neat one-two with Sloane-Rodrigues, before squaring for Grosso to tap into an unguarded net.
A third Kiwi goal arrived shortly after half-time. Vanuatu’s attempts to play the ball out from their own box backfired, with a loose ball falling straight to Ferguson, who finished first-time with aplomb.
Ferguson got his second and New Zealand’s fourth not long after with another well-taken effort, as the reigning champions began to flex their muscles.
Another substitute, Harley Hill, added a fifth – racing on to a nod down by Naidoo before smashing past Thomas from close range. Hill then turned provider, crossing for Ferguson to complete his hat-trick.
New Zealand will now begin their preparations for a semi-final later this week against New Caledonia, as Vanuatu’s campaign comes to an end.
Vanuatu: 0
New Zealand: 6 (Gabriel SLOANE-RODRIGUES 35′, Oliver GROSSO 45+1′, Bailey FERGUSON 50′, 56′, 76′, Harley HILL 71′)
HT: 0-2…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
We gave our best: Franklin
APIA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Fiji Junior Bula Boys midfielder Nicholas Franklin says he is proud of his teammates for giving their best, despite the side’s hopes of qualifying for the FIFA Under-20 World Cup taking a blow.
Fiji suffered a 2-1 defeat to Tahiti in their final pool match of the OFC U19 Men’s Championship in Samoa Monday.
The Junior Bula Boys started brightly and controlled the pace of the match in the early stages.
However, they were unable to maintain their momentum, allowing Tahiti to regain control and eventually secure the win.
“Yeah, it was a tough one. Tahiti played really well. At the start, we had control of the game, but we kind of lost it throughout, which was a big decider for us later in the game. The boys gave their best until the last whistle, and that’s all that really matters, to be honest.”
Franklin says missed opportunities also played a major role in Fiji’s defeat, as the side failed to capitalise on their chances…. PACNEWS
COOKS – FOOTBALL: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
CIFA confirms U14 girls academy squad for New Zealand McCartney Tournament
RAROTONGA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) is proud to announce that its TDS U14 Girls Academy Squad will travel to New Zealand in October to compete in the McCartney Tournament in Taupō.
The tournament, scheduled for 9–11 October, will provide the young homegrown players with an exciting opportunity to test themselves against club teams from across New Zealand in a competitive football environment.
Led by coaches Teretia Teinaki and Susan Williams, the squad has been identified as a key development group within CIFA’s pathway programme, with the tour designed to support both the football and personal growth of the players.
Head coach Teinaki and assistant coach Williams said the tournament aligns strongly with CIFA’s commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for young female footballers.
“The opportunity for our TDS U14 Girls Academy group to travel to Taupō for the McCartney Tournament highlights our commitment to creating meaningful pathways for our local players,” they said.
“By identifying this group as a development squad, we are intentionally giving our young athletes access to experiences beyond our shores, exposing them to higher levels of competition, new environments, and valuable learning opportunities that support both their football and personal growth.”
The coaches noted that sending the team to New Zealand demonstrates strong commitment and investment from CIFA leadership. The move aligns perfectly with the CIFA Women’s Strategy, which focuses on increasing access, participation and international exposure for female players.
“Most importantly, this initiative is about opening doors, ensuring that our local talent is given every possible opportunity to grow, compete, and be inspired, as we continue to build a strong and sustainable future for women’s football in the Cook Islands.”
The McCartney Tournament will offer valuable match experience, exposure to different playing styles and the chance for the players to represent the Cook Islands on an international stage as they continue their football journey into OFC Tournaments 2027 and beyond…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Australian Sevens to host Friday night festival of Rugby
CANBERRA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU) — The Australian Women’s and Men’s Sevens teams will host superpowers New Zealand and Fiji at the inaugural Kick On 7s on Friday, 16 October at Woollahra Oval.
The Friday night festival of rugby will see the reigning world champion Australian Women’s Sevens team take on the two-time Olympic gold medal-winning Black Ferns in a double-header while Australia’s Men will tackle dual Olympic champions Fiji across two preparation matches in the first-of-its-kind event.
Stars from the Wallabies, Wallaroos and the Australian Sevens will be at Woollahra Oval to meet with fans and conduct skills clinics from 4pm with the Sevens action to kick-off from 6pm.
Live DJs will be performing throughout the evening as Australia’s elite Sevens players sharpen their preparation for the HSBC SVNS world series, including the fan-favourite Perth event, and the Los Angeles Olympics by taking on two of the most successful nations in the history of the format.
Australian Women’s Sevens Head Coach Reg Tayler said: “Kick On 7s is a terrific initiative and the intimate setting of Woollahra Oval will allow fans a rare opportunity to experience first-hand the speed, skill and physicality of the Australian and New Zealand Sevens teams on their road to the Los Angeles Olympics.
“Between us, Australia and the Black Ferns Sevens have won three Olympic gold medals, and many more world titles, and our rivalry takes us to all corners of the globe each year. The opportunity to play at home is always a thrill – the Perth SVNS is an annual highlight of our calendar – and to provide more opportunities to compete in front of our own fans is something I know our entire squad will love.”
Australian Men’s Sevens Head Coach Liam Barry said: “A Friday night double-header between our Aussie Men’s Sevens team and the two-time Olympic champions Fiji will no doubt be a wonderful spectacle and a great addition to the Australian Rugby calendar.
“The Fijians are renowned throughout the rugby world for their flamboyancy and physicality and our Australian squad finished last season’s HSBC SVNS series strongly. We love competing against world-class opponents and to have the opportunity to do so in front of our home fans at Woollahra Oval will excite our players and coaches as we build towards the HSBC SVNS Series in Dubai on November 28-29.”
The Kick on 7s event will be followed by a historic quadruple-header on Saturday, October 17 at Accor Stadium, with all four senior Teams in Gold playing at the same place for the first time in history.
Kick On 7s
4:00 PM – Gates open
4:30 PM – Wallabies, Wallaroos & Aussie 7s Player Signings
6:15 PM & 7:45 PM – Aussie Women v New Zealand
6:45 PM & 8:20 PM – Aussie Men v Fiji…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Canada turn focus to Flying Fijians after heavy Japan loss
SUVA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN) — The Canada men’s rugby team will be at their best against the Flying Fijians in Saturday’s Pacific Nations Cup (PNC) semi-final in Osaka, Japan.
The Canadians had a run when they lost 12-57 to Japan during their 100th year anniversary celebration, last Saturday.
Canada captain Lucas Rumball said he is hopeful that they are improve against the Flying Fijians.
“I think we wanted to have a good crack at it today (against Japan) and to try new things and to not be afraid to make mistakes,” he told Canada Rugby Media.
“We have a lot to look forward to in terms of set piece and detail, but I’m proud of the boys for putting in this effort.”
Rumball highlighted that they have a lot to do on the set pieces, on the forward side of the ball.
“Then we need to keep growing and keep being confident in the risks we take. I think it pays off when we do that.”
The Flying Fijians are the defending PNC champions and interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula is bringing over a new team.
Canada men’s head coach Stephen Meehan said their preparations are geared towards next year’s Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“We’ll keep working on our fundamentals as much as we can. With a few more weeks in Japan-which we’re looking forward to, the team will continue to work on all aspects of their play and through to the end of the year to get a better idea of where we’re at.
“This is a long programme, and we’ll continue to use our time together to identify where we need to be to ensure we’re in a good place for Australia next year,” Meehan said.
As of now he says, they have turned their focus on the Flying Fijians. The match kicks-off at 7pm (Fiji time)…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
USA Eagles brace for tough Japan test
SUVA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN) — The USA Men’s Eagles are braced for a tough Pacific Nations Cup semi-final against hosts Japan in Osaka on Saturday.
Eagles head coach Scott Lawrence said Japan would provide a significant step up for his side as he finalises his selection.
“Japan is a Nations Championship team that will be a big step up for us in terms of their speed of play, physicality and overall accuracy,” he said.
“Going into this next five-week block, we’re focused on building depth and competition across our squad through intentional improvements in individual and collective performance.”
“Every player has an opportunity to grow, develop, and demonstrate that they can perform at this level, and we’re excited to see how this domestic-based group continues to develop through the challenge Japan will provide.”
In the front row, Joe Taufete’e rejoins the team after recovering from injury, adding size, power and international experience.
Freshly capped Charlie Abel will miss the match following his contract signing with French side Oyonnax, which makes him unavailable until November.
Mason Pedersen returns to the squad, while Kaleb Geiger’s return has been delayed as he continues his rehabilitation.
Veteran Sam Golla also returns to the second row after successfully recovering from injury.
Flyhalf Chris Hilsenbeck links back up with the backline following personal leave, providing another tactical leadership option at the No. 10 position.
Continuing the development of depth in Florida, Davie Coetzer will remain with the touring party as part of his long-term development pathway, although he will be unavailable for match-day selection.
U20 standout Spencer Huntley is unavailable to rejoin the team after suffering an injury during last week’s Florida assembly.
Michael Baska has consequently earned a call-up to join the Eagles in Japan.
Under the updated Pacific Nations Cup format, the Eagles will face a new structure featuring two pools and direct knockout matches.
The Eagles will open against Japan at Hanazono Rugby Stadium in Osaka on 12 September, with Fiji taking on Canada before the USA match.
All four teams will then travel to Tokyo for the third-place play-off and final at Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium on 19 September…. PACNEWS
PAC – NETBALL: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Battle for the Oceania Netball World Cup spots begins in Tonga next week
NUKU’ALOFA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The stage is set for an exciting week of top netball action at the Oceania Netball World Cup qualifier in Tonga.
Five regional national teams will be competing for two World Cup spots, when the competition rolls off in Nuku’alofa on Monday.
Hosts Tonga, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and Samoa will compete for the two spots, joining New Zealand as the three teams from Oceania at the world meet in Australia next year.
Samoa and PNG will kick off the competition on Monday, 14 September, followed by Cook Islands and Fiji.
The round-robin competition ends on 18 September, with the top two advancing to the Netball World Cup.
The Tongan Tala are scheduled to arrive home on Tuesday evening, under head coach Jaqua Pori-Makea-Simpson, who took over as head coach in 2019.
The Tongangs are favourites for one of the two spots because of their impressive record since 2019, which included back-to-back wins at the PacificAus Netball series between 2022 to 2024, and their top 10 ranking in the world.
The Tala was the only Pacific Island team that qualified for the recent 2026 Commonwealth Games, where they finished ninth. They are also seventh on world rankings at the moment.
Tonga Netball CEO Salote Sisifa said hosting the event was a milestone and securing a World Cup spot would be icing on the cake.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to be able to host this for the first time,” she said.
“It is an exciting week of competition and all the teams will be vying to claim the two spots available.
“I know our Tala team has been preparing well and we would ask for the support of all fans in their campaign to secure a world cup spot.”
The Tala will be led by inspirational captain Hulita Veve and will feature top goalshooter Uneeq Palavi.
Palavi, who will be playing her netball in England in the new season, finished as the third best goalshooter at the Commonwealth Games, scoring 219 points in her six games, with an accuracy rate of 92.8 percent.
She finished behind New Zealand’s Grace Nweke who scored 229 goals with an accuracy rate of 90.5 percent and South Africa’s Elmere van der Berg, who recorded 222 goals from five games.
Tonga will take on Cook Islands in their opening game at the Tonga High School gymnasium on Monday.
Tala squad: Luana Aukafolau, Isabella Fainga’anuku, ‘Otolose Fainga’anuku, Lupe Fonua, Emma Mateo, Uneeq Palavi, Marie Payn, Sovika Pousini, Halaevalu Toutaiolepo, Leila Tu’inukuafe, Hulita Veve and Jariah Vuna-Kivalu.
Pearls wary
Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons believes Tonga are top favourites, along with last year’s PacAust series champions Samoa.
Parsons, named earlier this year to lead the Fijians, the hosts definitely have the upper hand, playing at home and with their impressive record.
“I think Tonga and Samoa are obviously the teams that are ranked really high, and Tonga has legitimately put themselves on the calendar by being eighth in the world and competing really well at the Commonwealth Games,” she told FBC News in Suva.
“With it being a home qualifier for them, I think they’re the biggest threat right now, so definitely Tonga and Samoa.”
But she is also wary of Cook Islands and PNG, who have named strong squads for the event.
“The Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea have invested a lot in their development, so we’re very respectful of everybody,” she told FBC News.
Parsons has a young squad, with most of the senior players from the past three years now out of the team.
The side played at the Spirit Series in Sydney two months ago, finishing third.
They lost to Singapore and the First Nations Black Swans but defeated PNG twice to win bronze.
The Fiji Pearls have a bye first up on Monday and take on Cook Islands in their opening game on Tuesday, 15 September.
Fiji Pearls squad: Leehava Saverio, Maliana Rusivakula, Maria Lutua Rusivakula, Matila Vocea, Abbie Leger, Jimaima Kete, Teuila Sotutu, Nina Nakula, Alisi Naqiri, Elenoa Gukirewa, Varanisese Vula, Vutaeli Tokaduadua. Non-travelling reserves – Elizabeth Adrole, Ana Moi, Anatolia Nuku, Nani Waqaira, Naviniya Sivo and Sanimere Tagicakiverata.
Cooks call-up
Local players Nicol Tiaore and Nicole Marurai are part of the Cook Islands team competing in the Oceania Qualifiers.
Cook Islands News reported the duo were included in the team announced following the final trials held in Australia earlier in August.
Former Cook Islands captain Luciana Nicholas, who is coaching the team alongside Lucky Letoa and Junior Manapori, said that for the selection process, they decided Brisbane would be the best place to hold their final trials, as most finalists were based in Australia.
Nicholas said prepration has been tough as “unfortunately, funding is always a challenge for us, and we haven’t had the luxury of having a training camp together before the tournament to work on our game plans and combinations”.
She told Cook Islands News that the limited preparation time they have had together is their biggest challenge.
“This has mainly been due to funding constraints, which have made it difficult to bring the whole team together for a proper camp before the tournament.”
But they have been able to get their players working with appointed coaches where they live, toe ase that burden.
“Having a coach in each country also allows us to keep in touch with each other as well as having a virtual online training session.”
Nicholas said the squad is a mix of experienced players and exciting young talent coming through.
“Rather than relying on one or two standout players, we are focused on building a strong team where every player understands their role and contributes to the overall performance,” she said.
“However, I am very proud of our local girls Nicol Tiaore from Avatiu Netball Club and Nicole Marurai from Tupapa Maraerenga Netball Club. Reserve Danielle Arona from Arorangi Netball Club.”
Cook Islands will start their campaign against Tonga on Monday.
Cook Islands squad: Lenae Cowan-Marearai, Tia Crombie, Charlize Gabel-Joseph, Alexandra Iro, Sierra Lau’ese, Maine-Crystal Maro, Nicole Marurai, Rahni Samason, Charniah Shepherd, Ngahuia Te-Rure, Rochelle Teiri and Nicol Tiaore. Non-travelling reserves – Danielle Arona, Genesis Foster-Jonassen and Aphrodite Piri.
Samoa learnings
Samoa, winners of the PacAust series title last year, tested their players at the recent three-match series against the Australian Pathway squad in July
Netball Samoa CEO Justine Wilson-Ata and Tifaimoana head coach Natalie Mathews told Samoa Observer in Apia the series helped assess the team’s progress ahead of the qualifiers in Tonga.
“Each game offered opportunities to test structures, combinations and conditioning against a strong opponent,” Matthews said.
“The experience has been instrumental in preparing the squad for the next stage of our campaign.”
Samoa’s Invitational teams lost all three matches against the Australian Pathway U23 squad, falling 67-43 in the opening match, 69-46 in the second and 67-42 in the final match.
Netball Samoa said the matches highlighted areas for improvement before the qualifiers, including consistency and execution under pressure.
The series also gave the selectors a clearer picture of the players being considered for the Tifaimoana squad.
Samoa will meet PNG in the opening game on Monday, 14 September.
Samoa squad: Kara Adrole, Papi Alaalatoa, Eseta Autagavaia, Rianah Childs, Lata’anga Holi, Piuti Laban, Kristiana Manu’a, Fa’amu Muliaga, Priscilla Rasmussen-Robertson, Renee Savaiinaea, Mia Swann, Gardenia Treviranus-Asiata; Non-travelling reserves – Unique Pritchard, Auteletoa Tanomi and Maria Tatupu.
Pepe’s campaign
A 21-year-old is expected to be playing a lead role in the PNG Pepe’s campaign in Tonga.
Barely out of her teens, Waisame Andrew, is one of the mid-court players named in the PNG squad that will try to win a spot at next year’s Netball World Cup in Sydney.
The mid-courter is the mainstay of the Pepes after flying the national team’s flag since she was 13.
“I wasn’t into netball,” she Australian media in July when she competed at the Spirit Series in Sydney with the Pepes.
“In 2015 they had a Pacific Games, so I was like, ‘I think one day I will represent my country”’.
She had played in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast and competed against Fiji, Singapore and the Black Swans – Australia’s First Nations netball team, in Sydney.
PNG coach Lua Rikis said in July that her squad is young, with a lot of new players.
“This is a bunch of new girls that we brought from home, only a few in the squad have had exposure,” she said.
“We have different girls coming from different cultures, different villages, different languages.
“For us, it’s the love of the sport … most of the girls, I know them, I’ve watched them grow up … and most of them play in local competitions that I’m a part of.
“We come together and then try to make it work for our team, so I think that’s the beauty (of it).”
PNG will meet Samoa first up in their opening game on Monday.
PNG Pepes squad: Kala Ali, Kailani Brazier, Talie’e Hampton, Clera Scot, Michaela Kadlecek, Leighval Albert, Waisame Andrew, Boio Peter, Monique Rousseau, Hana Barretoo, Lesieli Taviri, Tina Poha. Non-travelling reserves – Laurwin Rikis, Aiva English, Jemima Mai
Full schedule:
Monday, 14 September: Samoa v Papua New Guinea, Tonga v Cook Islands
Tuesday, 15 September: Cook Islands v Fiji, Tonga v Papua New Guinea
Wednesday, 16 September: Samoa v Fiji, Papua New Guinea v Cook Islands
Thursday, 17 September: Tonga v Fiji, Samoa v Cook Islands
Friday, 18 September: Fiji v Papua New Guinea, Tonga v Samoa…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
‘New levels’: Pacific to reap rewards from MCG NFL game
CANBERRA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — Star receiver Puka Nacua believes the NFL’s first regular season game in Australia will help usher in the next generation of Pacific stars, despite the increasing presence of rugby league and rugby union in the region.
Nacua and his Los Angeles Rams will face the San Francisco 49ers at the MCG on Friday in what will be a historic moment for gridiron in Australia.
But despite the match being hosted down under, Nacua sees the clash as an opportunity to connect with the Pacific community.
“For kids from the Pacific Islands and from areas that don’t play American football to have the opportunity to see that … (can help them) chase new levels,” the 25-year-old told AAP.
“The opportunities are very limited, and there are few chances to continue to be able to play this game, given how physically demanding it is.
“The game is growing. I know that the rules and the values that have been a part of this game of football are closely aligned to those of the Polynesian culture.”
Raised in Utah, Nacua has a mix of Samoan, Hawaiian and European heritage, as his grandmother was born in the Pacific island nation before moving to the U.S.
The wide receiver visited his remaining family in Samoa last year while also working with community organisations to promote health as well as visiting a local school.
“I know some of my mum’s family lives out there, and they’re planning on coming to the game,” Nacua said.
“I feel like sport, especially the game of football, has always meant family, a brotherhood, sacrifice, and things that connect very deeply to me and the culture that I was raised in.
“It just killed last year as we got the chance to play in London, and I think everybody (family) was like, ‘Man, we wish we came out to this one’.
“I’m definitely going to make sure that my mum gets a chance to come out to Australia.”
The growth of gridiron in the Pacific has hit a historic peak with a record five Polynesian players receiving first round picks in the 2026 NFL draft.
It comes despite the growth of rugby league in the area, which is set to expand with the Australian government spending $250 million (US$180.45 million) to progress the sport in Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and PNG as part of a broader $600 million (US$433.09) cash splash to establish the PNG Chiefs.
Rugby Australia is also looking to grow the game in the region by injecting part of the federal government’s $90 million (US$64.97 million), which was allocated for next year’s World Cup.
Regardless, the NFL continues to attract players of Pacific Island descent to the game, including Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (Samoa), Detroit’s offensive tackle Penei Sewell (American Samoa) and Denver safety Talanoa Hufanga (Tonga).
Sydney-born offensive tackle Jordan Mailata, who won the Super Bowl with Philadelphia in 2025, is also of Samoan descent
But perhaps the best Pacific footballer last season was Nacua, as he was a finalist for the league’s offensive player of the year award after he racked up a mammoth 153 receptions along with 2047 yards.
The influx of players comes as the league is developing up-and-coming talent from the Asia-Pacific region at the NFL academy on the Gold Coast.
There’s a deal in place to host at least two regular-season games at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) between 2026 and 2029, with an option for a third, while other Australian cities have also flagged their interest…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
The PNG Chiefs – a country’s shot at the big time
CANBERRA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The woman who is heading Papua New Guinea’s new NRL franchise says the club is a long-term prospect that can lift a nation.
The PNG Chiefs will enter Australia’s NRL – the world’s premier rugby league competition – in 2028, with the help of an AU$600 million (US$433.13 million) investment by the Australian government over ten years.
RNZ Pacific had a chat to PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson about what is in store for the fledgling franchise, which has generated great interest in a rugby league-loving country.
PNG had lobbied for a long time to get a team into the NRL, at least since around 2008 when Sir Michael Somare was the prime minister.
To finally get there is hugely exciting, according to McPherson, who has extensive experience in PNG rugby league and sponsorship, including with the Hunters, the PNG side which entered the Queensland Cup competition several years back, a kind of stepping stone for the country on its NRL journey.
Pathways
McPherson said that because rugby league was like a religion in PNG, the advent of the Chiefs was much bigger than just the sport.
“What we’re trying to do with the Chiefs is really to try and bring that professionalism at a very high standard, that PNG can also operate at that standard across the board too.
“It kind of creates the pathways for the players, it creates pathways for the coaches, for administrators, referees etc., right throughout the whole game.
“And I think that for me having rugby league as a vehicle to drive change as well is a really important thing as we go forward, too.”
Prime Minister James Marape has repeatedly described the Chiefs as a development that can be transformational for the country, and McPherson agreed that communities across PNG could benefit from the franchise as an institution that creates “trust and connection” and drives change.
“One of the things we want to launch is a Chiefs Foundation, which we are working on as well, where we would focus particularly on health and education, and really the pathways for young people as well, which we feel is really important as we go along.
“You create opportunities for the kids. You make sure that what as part of your pathway programme, that the kids are going to school. So, everybody cannot play league with us through our pathways programmes unless they go to school, as an example.
“So, all of a sudden, you start to achieve something much more bigger than just a game of footy.”
Governance
McPherson said that the Chiefs also had the potential to help general governance of sport in PNG across other codes.
“League is just one code of sport. And so if we get it right, that can replicate right to other codes as well and and how we actually do things as well, and you get that governance, and then good governance can then replicate right throughout Papua New Guinea.”
Governance of several sporting codes in PNG have had a chequered history, with weak financial controls and factional disputes not uncommon.
McPherson admitted that there have been “hiccups” along the way, but said there were clear guidelines on governance for rugby league in PNG.
“We are audited, everything’s done properly, and and I am really comfortable with the way that it is run, and the code’s run right across the whole of the country.
“So the NRL team coming in, it is just the icing on the cake for us because we have got the rest of it right.”
Player recruitment
The Chiefs have recruited several high profile rugby league players for their inaugural season already, including Jerome Luai who has also been earmarked as a potential tourism ambassador for PNG.
While PNG players do not yet feature in the ranks, McPherson assured RNZ Pacific they would be a central part of the mix.
“We hae got seven players now. We have recruited what has been available in the pool that you have available to be able to talk to,” she said, adding that under NRL rules players are not always available for negotiation until contract windows emerge.
“We cannot talk to many people until November 1, including some young, talented Papua New Guineans, as an example as well. So November 1 is kind of D-Day for us, and we have got a lot of focus on that timeline to be able to start to do the recruitment of other players.
“People say to me like, ‘Oh, you don’t have any forwards’. Well, there is none available to talk to until November 1, so your hands are tied.
“Papua New Guinean players are important to us. We are the PNG Chiefs. But we are also looking at the Pacific overall, so our strategy is to take on Pacific players and make sure that the whole of the Pacific Islands is is covered.”
Tax incentives
McPherson makes no apologies about the tax incentives being used to lure players to the Chiefs.
“At the end of the day, the tax was given at the time to encourage people to move to Papua New Guinea, because everybody has to up and go to a different country. It was an incentive to encourage players to come across.
“But we have got the same salary cap as everybody, and we are not allowed to underpay somebody.
“I am not ashamed of the fact that we have got tax-free. You know, that was there as an incentive, and I think it was a good incentive for us and for the players as well because they do have to to come to a different country.”
There are some grumbles in the Australian public about the sheer amount of tax payer money being thrown at the PNG Chiefs which, along with the tax incentives, may look like an uneven playing field.
“I do not see it being an unfair playing field in any way, shape, or form,” McPherson said.
“They have to give up so much to be able to come over to Papua New Guinea that other players do not have to do.
“It is a big change. You are moving your children’s schools, you are changing it to a different country, etc. So it is completely different than any other environment. So do I think it is unfair? No, I don’t.”
Long-term prospects
Canberra is sinking a lot of money into the PNG Chiefs, as the coin finally dropped that sport diplomacy is an area where it can gain an edge on China in terms of influence in the region, which is clearly its goal.
McPherson would not be drawn on geopolitical ramifications of the Chiefs, but preferred to focus on the altruistic aims in Australia’s PNG Chiefs investment.
“It is about Australia helping Papua New Guinea build a really strong institution. We know that it is something that we can build and and something that will deliver real change across the country.
“It will unite a country and it will drive change within the the likes of the school systems.”
But is the PNG Chiefs a viable long-term prospect that will last beyond this initial splash of investment from Australia?
“Look, there are so many people that have said to us that this could never be done, right? Like it or not, they said to us that the players would not come. They said that the coaches would not come. There would be no commercial viability of the club.
“But believe me, we are seeing the complete opposite. We will in the next few weeks launch our partnerships with our sponsors. That is exciting. We have done really well there.
“The team has worked amazingly, my commercial team and the guys pulling all of that together.
“We have got exciting times with our player recruitment, our coaches. We are in a really good place. And so, my role as the CEO is to make sure that the the business becomes sustainable, and it becomes commercially viable.
“I have gotten the most amazing team that work for me, and we are really set up now to drive that forward. So, do I think it’s sustainable? Yes, I do. Do I think it will bring change? Yes, I do as well.”…. PACNEWS
PAC – CRICKET: ICC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Road to ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup continues in Vanuatu
PORT VILA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (ICC) — Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Samoa and hosts Vanuatu have arrived in Port Vila for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific Division 2 Qualifier, to be played at the Vanuatu Cricket Grounds from 8-12 September.
Each team will play the other three sides during the round-robin stage before the tournament concludes on 12 September with a Final between the top two teams and a play-off between the teams finishing third and fourth. The winner of the Final will advance to the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Asia-Pacific Division 1 Qualifier.
While qualification remains the primary objective, the tournament also provides an important development opportunity for the region’s emerging cricketers, with many of the athletes set to gain their first experience of an ICC pathway event.
For many of the players competing in Port Vila, the qualifier presents an opportunity to test themselves against the best young talent from across the region and continue their development on the international pathway.
The tournament will be overseen by an experienced team of match officials appointed by the ICC.
Former New Zealand Test fast bowler Shayne O’Connor will lead the match officials’ panel. Two members of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires, Claire Polosak (Australia) and Cory Black (New Zealand), will be joined by regional officials Helen Atai (Papua New Guinea), Kalala Tanuvasa (Samoa), Meriel Kenni (Vanuatu) and Mac Millan Markia (Vanuatu) for the on-field duties.
Indonesia continues to make significant progress in cricket development and will be eager to turn that growth into success on the field.
Indonesia captain Pican Mada said: “We are very excited to be here in Vanuatu and to have the opportunity to represent Indonesia on the ICC pathway.
“For many of our players, this is an important step in their development, and we want to compete with confidence, learn from every match and show the progress cricket is making in Indonesia.”
Papua New Guinea arrives in Port Vila looking to continue its strong tradition of youth cricket and take another step along the World Cup pathway.
PNG captain Vagi Morea said: “Papua New Guinea has a proud tradition of cricket and it is a privilege for us to represent our country at this tournament.
“We know the competition will be strong, but we have prepared well and our focus is on playing positive cricket, supporting each other and giving ourselves the best possible opportunity to progress to the next stage.”
Samoa enters the tournament aiming to showcase its emerging talent and create another milestone in the growth of cricket within the nation.
Samoa captain Joshua McNaughton said: “This tournament is a great opportunity for our young players to test themselves against quality opposition and represent Samoa with pride.
“We want to play an exciting brand of cricket, keep improving throughout the tournament and hopefully inspire more young people back home to take up the game.”
Playing on home soil, Vanuatu will be hoping local support can help drive their qualification ambitions.
Vanuatu captain Surya Lekai said: “It is very special for us to play an ICC tournament at home and represent Vanuatu in front of our families, friends and supporters.
“We are proud to have this opportunity and will be looking to use the home support, play with confidence and compete strongly for a place in the next stage of qualification.”
Fixtures
Tuesday, 8 September:
Vanuatu v Indonesia,
PNG vs Samoa
Wednesday, 9 September:
Vanuatu vs Samoa
Indonesia and PNG
Friday, 11 September:
Vanuatu vs PNG.
Samoa vs Indonesia
Saturday, 12 September: x
3rd vs 4th
1st vs 2nd…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
Cornish joins Drua development
SUVA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has strengthened its Junior Development Program with the signing of 17-year-old Alfred Cornish.
Cornish was a standout performer for Ba Provincial Free Bird Institute during the 2026 Vodafone Super Deans Under-18 competition.
Playing at flanker, the Natabua High School student scored Ba Pro’s only try in their quarterfinal against Suva Grammar School, breaking two tackles before powering more than 30 metres to score under the posts.
Cornish’s opportunity to play in the Vodafone Deans Under-18 competition came after changes to the tournament’s Terms of Participation for the 2026 season.
The youngster brings a strong sporting pedigree to the Drua program.
In 2024, he represented Fiji in swimming at the Oceania Aquatics Championships on the Gold Coast, Australia, competing alongside some of the country’s leading young swimmers.
“I’m lost for words right now. I feel really blessed to be part of the Drua Vuvale for the coming season and I’m looking forward to getting into it with the boys. This will be my home for the next two seasons, and I’m really excited.”
His combination of rugby potential, athleticism and experience across sports makes Cornish an exciting addition to the Drua’s emerging talent pathway…. PACNEWS
VAN – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Wed 09 Sep 2026
A Special Week of Football in Port Vila
PORT VILA, 09 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — As Central Coast Mariners visit Vanuatu for two international friendly matches against OFC Pro League team Vanuatu United FC, the players will also take time to connect with young people in the community.
The first of two matches between the teams take place tomorrow at VFF Freshwater Stadium, bringing top-level football action to fans in Port Vila.
Then on Thursday, the players will visit Survival Primary School from 10:00am to 11:00am.
On Friday they will visit Saint Joseph School in the Namba 2 Lagoon Area from 10:30am to 11:30am.
Through these school visits, students will have a special opportunity to meet professional football players, hear their stories, and gain inspiration to pursue their own dreams through sport.
These school visits are part of Team Up’s Just Play program, which is supported by the Australian Government and delivered in partnership with the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF), and football partners across the region. The program uses sport as a tool to inspire young people, promote inclusion, and build strong, positive communities.
This is another great example of how football can bring people together and strengthen the connection between Vanuatu and Australia.
We look forward to welcoming Central Coast Mariners to both the schools and the field this week!…. PACNEWS
