In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — V’landys vows to defend court action against NRL over PNG Chiefs name
2. RUGBY — Pacific rugby league is closing the gap as the World Cup nears, says former Kiwis player
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga half cleared for World Cup as Titans prop culled
4. FOOTBALL — Ba crowned IDC 2026 champions in Fiji
5. FOOTBALL — Kiribati makes history with FMF IDC triumph
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Tears in their eyes’: Ponga proud to represent family
7. TRIATHLETE — AFL star-turned triathlete prepares for Hawaii debut
8. RUGBY — Wallabies’ Eden Park curse continues with 50-19 thrashing
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — From remote islands to the Bulldogs: Inside the Silktails pathway
10. RUGBY — ‘Square that up’: Wallabies ready for response in Sydney following Bledisloe defeat
11. YOUTH OLYMPICS — Dakar to host ‘Sport for Development Summit’
12. OLYMPICS — Rauhe sees positive IOC signals for Munich 2036
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: SMH PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
V’landys vows to defend court action against NRL over PNG Chiefs name
SYDNEY, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (SMH)—NRL supremo Peter V’landys has vowed to take on New Zealand Rugby in court after it launched legal action which could force the Australian government-backed expansion side the PNG Chiefs to be renamed.
The decision to call the NRL’s incoming 19th team the Chiefs has been contested by authorities in the 15-a-side game given there has long been a Super Rugby franchise by the same name based in New Zealand’s Waikato region.
This masthead revealed last month that NZ Rugby had written to the NRL warning it would take it to court if it did not reconsider branding the historic PNG entry to the competition as the Chiefs.
It has now instigated proceedings after V’landys, the Australian Rugby League Commission executive chairman, responded that the NRL had no intention of changing the name.
“New Zealand Rugby (NZR) has today moved to protect the Chiefs brand and is filing proceedings in the High Court of New Zealand against the decision by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) to launch a new NRL side using ‘Chiefs’ in its name,” NZ Rugby said in a statement on Thursday.
“NZR is seeking both an interim and final injunction which stops the use of the names ‘PNG Chiefs’, ‘Chiefs’ or any other similar names in New Zealand.
NZ Rugby said if the NRL used Chiefs as the name for its expansion team playing and trading in Australia and New Zealand, “it will cause significant confusion and damage”.
V’landys said the NRL would “defend this vigorously”.
“The hypocrisy is mind-blowing, considering the Auckland Blues in 1996 used the NSW Blues name without any consultation or approval. The NSW Blues had been the Blues for in excess of 50 years before that,” he said.
“Rugby union is obviously feeling threatened by rugby league in New Zealand, with sell-outs at most rugby league games.”
The NRL has maintained that having sporting clubs with the same name is not unusual, citing the many teams that are called the Chiefs in multiple sports around the world as well as the clash between the Auckland Blues and the NSW Blues.
NZ Rugby said it had shared its concerns with the ARL Commission, which owns the NRL, after the PNG Chiefs name was unveiled last October.
The PNG Chiefs logo and jersey is due to be revealed at an event in Port Moresby this month, but those plans could be thrown into disarray with NZ Rugby seeking an urgent hearing that may take place as soon as next week.
NZ Rugby said rugby’s Chiefs had built a strong identity and fan base across New Zealand, Australia and internationally in the 30 years since they were founded and owned the trademark rights for the word Chiefs and the Chiefs logo in New Zealand as well as trademark protections for the logo in Australia.
“Regrettably, NZR has been unable to engage with the ARLC constructively towards a resolution and it is now clear that, unless NZR takes this step, there will be no change to the team’s name ahead of the official launch on 21 October 2026,” NZ Rugby said.
Australia’s Labor government committed $600 million (US$400 million) over 10 years to support the Chiefs entry into the NRL from 2028.
NZ Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster said rugby officials had a “responsibility to protect the Chiefs brand”.
“We want to be absolutely clear, this is not about rugby league’s growth in the Pacific,” he said.
“We welcome the development of the Pacific region through sport and the passion that the people of Papua New Guinea have for both rugby and rugby league.”
Simon Graafhuis, the chief executive of rugby’s Chiefs, said in the same statement: “Here in New Zealand, when people hear ‘the Chiefs’, they think of this club and this region.
“The identity carries significant cultural meaning and connection to the region and its people, we know it means a great deal to our players and coaches past and present, fans and supporters here and around the world.
“Teams in different sports and markets can exist alongside one another with the same name, but the issue here is the similarity of our sports competing in the same market, for the same fans, in overlapping windows.”
The NRL attempted to register the trademark PNG Chiefs days after the name was announced by PNG Prime Minister James Marape last year but the application has been repeatedly blocked amid opposition from NZ Rugby.
On September 28, the PNG Chiefs trademark was accepted, but only after three key commercial classes were removed from its application that cover items such as clothing, sports bags and coaching and education material.
The NRL filed a separate application for those classes which is under examination by IP Australia.
The trademark classes which were accepted give the NRL permission to use the PNG Chiefs name on products like magnets for fridges, mobile phone cases, towels, trading cards and equipment such as kicking tees, goal posts and tackle pads.
The NRL owns the PNG Chiefs, as well as fellow expansion team the Perth Bears….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Pacific rugby league is closing the gap as the World Cup nears, says former Kiwis player
AUCKLAND, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (PMN)—As Pacific rugby league nations prepare for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, former New Zealand player Veve Iosia ‘Sia’ Soliola says the gap between them and the traditional powerhouses is getting smaller.
He says the growing number of experienced players choosing to represent Sāmoa, Tonga, Fiji, and the Cook Islands is helping lift the standard of the international game.
“I think it’s more the strength of all the nations now,” the 40-year-old told Tuilagi William Leolahi on Pacific Huddle. “It’s really good to get a lot of experienced players out to those nations and really try and connect with those communities because there’s a lot of love.”
Sia, who played 12 Tests for the Kiwis, says the growth of Pacific rugby league is about more than results. It is also about players connecting with their communities, understanding the history behind their jerseys, and creating opportunities for those coming through.
He also played for the Sydney Roosters, Canberra Raiders, and St Helens, and says the support shown by Pacific communities at celebrations and parades, reflects how much representing a nation means to its people.
“And I think it’s really lovely that the players can really sort of give back to that,” he said. “The gap is really getting smaller in terms of the experience and the level of players that we’re getting within the nations now, the Pacific nations now.”
That growth is something he hopes young athletes will recognise as they work towards their own goals.
Sia’s own journey was shaped by the sacrifices made by his family after they moved from Sāmoa to New Zealand.
Supporting his rugby league ambitions meant finding time and money for training, travel, and team commitments while the wider family worked to get ahead.
“It wasn’t just the four of us. was a lot of us trying to like, not only just for me to get ahead and, know, my sister to improve, but everyone else in that as well that are all moved over from Sāmoa,” he said.
His Sāmoan upbringing also helped shape the person he became. He credits his mother with keeping their household connected to fa’a Sāmoa through church, choir, youth group and the everyday lessons of family life.
“I am the person I am today and I’m like really grateful for those teachings,” he said.
Now working to support the next generation, Iave wants young Pasifika athletes to understand that their value does not depend only on what they achieve on the field.
“They’re more than just people that can pass and tackle and do all these really great things on the football field,” he said. “But to understand there’s other great things outside of it as well.”
He says success can be measured in different ways, even when players do not reach their sporting goals. Learning about themselves, building relationships and finding purpose outside the game can also help them grow.
Sia also sees adversity as an important part of that journey, from injuries and missed selection to the challenge of life after retirement.
“We’ve really got to embrace it and move forward with it,” he said.
His advice to his younger self is simple: “Don’t overthink it.”
That message echoes the experience of Kiwis debutant Jacob Laban, who told PMN News his Sāmoan father supported his decision to represent New Zealand at the World Cup.
“The Kiwis gave me an opportunity, New Zealand gave me an opportunity, just pay it back and be loyal,” Laban said, recalling his father’s advice.
Sia says that wider support from family and community is part of what helps Pacific players grow, both on and off the field.
As the World Cup approaches, Sia says the strength of Pacific teams gives fans plenty to look forward to.
Asked who he would back to win the tournament, he had a clear answer. “New Zealand. The Kiwis.”
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup kicks off on 15 October and ends on 15 November. Games will be played across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Tonga half cleared for World Cup as Titans prop culled
NUKU’ALOFA, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Tonga have received a boost on the cusp of the Rugby League World Cup with playmaker Junior Amone getting official clearance to play in the tournament.
When His Royal Highness Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala announced the Tonga squad on Tuesday it was with 24 players, with one to be omitted.
At that point coach Kristian Woolf was still in dialogue with officials about the eligibility of Amone, who played the last of his 51 NRL games for St George Illawarra in 2023.
He was later deregistered following a conviction for an assault involving a hammer.
Amone, 24, was ordered to serve an intensive correction order before returning to action for Wynnum Manly in the Queensland Cup where he hit top form this season.
Woolf confirmed on Friday that Amone, who played at the 2022 World Cup for Tonga, had received the green light with Gold Coast prop Moeaki Fotuaika dropping out of the final 23-man squad.
“We had to make sure there was approval from the IRL and the NRL for Junior to make sure he was eligible to play,” Woolf told AAP.
“Junior is a very talented player and I have been quite impressed by his comeback into rugby league.
“He played Queensland Cup this year and I thought he was quite dominant at that level.
“Junior is in a position where we need a bit more depth and that’s why I have looked at giving him this opportunity.”
Amone is in a battle with experienced Huddersfield five-eighth Tuimoala Lolohea and Wests Tigers playmaker Latu Fainu to partner Dolphins whiz Isaiya Katoa in the halves.
It was a tough selection call to leave Queensland prop Fotuaika out but Woolf made the decision for the “balance of the squad”, given the strength of the forward pack.
Woolf made what he said was “another hard call’ to leave Tonga stalwart Felise Kaufusi out of the 23, made doubly difficult by the fact he also plays for the Woolf-coached Dolphins in the NRL.
“I love what Felise brings both on and off the field and for what he has brought to us in the past,” Woolf said.
“That was a very hard call on him but the great thing about the team we have named is the number of guys who have played in the finals series.
“You add to that the number of them who have played in the grand final. That shows you the form they are in and the confidence and match fitness they are coming in with.”
Sydney Roosters trio Robert Toia, Siua Wong and Salesi Foketi all won the grand final while Tyson Frizell played in the decider with Newcastle.
Woolf said there was a balance of experience, headed by warhorse leaders Addin Fonua-Blake and Jason Taumalolo, along with youthful energy brought by the likes of Warriors weapons Demitric Vaimauga and Leka Halasima.
Toia and debutant winger Jojo Fifita were both in Australia’s sights while New Zealand had their eyes on Foketi, but all three elected to represent Tonga.
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“That does impress me,” Woolf said.
“They have had plenty of encouragement from other nations to try and get them to change their minds but I said all along that I was very confident of where their hearts sat and that never changed.”
Tonga open their World Cup campaign in Perth against England on Saturday, 17 October…PACNEWS
FIJI – FOOTBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Ba crowned IDC 2026 champions in Fiji
SUVA, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Ba FC have been crowned champions of the 86th FMF Inter-District Championship after defeating Vantex Solutions Navua FC 2-0 in the Super Premier Division final at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
After a tense battle, Ba broke the deadlock in the 80th minute through Nabil Begg, putting the Men in Black in control of the final.
Etonia Dogalau then sealed the victory seven minutes later, converting from the penalty spot in the 87th minute to double Ba’s lead.
Navua couldn’t find a response as Ba held on to secure the prestigious IDC title….PACNEWS
FIJI – FOOTBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Kiribati makes history with FMF IDC triumph
SUVA, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—-Kiribati has made history after thrashing Seaqaqa FC 6-1 to win the Premier Division title at the 86th FMF Inter-District Championship at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva today.
In their first appearance at the tournament, Kiribati produced a dominant second-half performance to secure a memorable championship victory.
Nabetari Ioera opened the scoring in the 26th minute before Apenisa Dulukobau equalised for Seaqaqa four minutes later to leave both sides locked at 1-1 at halftime.
However, the match turned in Kiribati’s favour when Seaqaqa was reduced to 10 men following Dulukobau’s red card in the 59th minute.
Ioera restored Kiribati’s lead three minutes later before Peter Diehm extended the advantage in the 72nd minute.
Substitute Kinione Siu added the fourth in the 77th minute, with JR Bauro Martin scoring three minutes later before Diehm completed his double in the 89th minute.
The victory was particularly sweet for Kiribati, who had lost 4-2 to Seaqaqa during the group stages.
For a team whose players have honed their skills on the sandy grounds back home, the historic triumph marks a significant milestone for football in Kiribati.
Roared on by their passionate supporters, the players celebrated a remarkable debut campaign by lifting the Premier Division trophy….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
‘Tears in their eyes’: Ponga proud to represent family
SYDNEY, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Kalyn Ponga was overcome with gratitude, suiting up as a Kiwi after international eligibility changes allowed the star fullback to experience the Test arena for the first time with his nation of choice.
The gun No.1 has had a phenomenal 2026, captaining Newcastle to the NRL grand final and representing Queensland in State of Origin, but he says the upcoming World Cup is the pinnacle of the sport.
“’ve never played at the international level,” Ponga said at New Zealand’s media day on Friday.
‘Obviously it’s the pinnacle of rugby league, and to do that now, I feel like the time is right in terms of my career.
“As I got older, my sister probably influencing me, my family influencing me, but the connection to my culture has only got stronger and it definitely feels right now.”
The ARLC overhauled State of Origin eligibility rules in February, allowing players to represent any nation and also remain eligible for NSW or Queensland.
“I thought it was the right decision. I think the game’s only getting bigger, and to strengthen both stages, the Origin arena and international,” Ponga said.
“I was just grateful that I can actually have this opportunity and represent my people. It’s going to be a proud moment.”
Ponga has previously suited up for the Maori All-Stars, but can now also play for his Kiwi heritage – a proud moment for the entire family.
“I’m excited about this whole experience, but to go out there and represent where I’m from, my family, my culture, and the country is pretty special,” Ponga said.
“I know my family will probably have tears in their eyes. Obviously doing the haka and everything before the game, we’ll be proud.”
The 28-year-old admits it would have been a different black jersey he was dreaming of as a young boy living in Palmerston, New Zealand
“Back in the day it was more the All Blacks, but this (jersey) is just as special,” Ponga said, proudly sporting the Kiwis’ match strip.
The new Kiwi has 13 caps for Queensland, and has represented the Junior Kangaroos and the Australian team at the only edition of the Rugby League 9s World Cup in 2019, but could never quite break into the senior Australian Test team.
Lining up against the Aussies in the first game of the tournament is a highly anticipated moment for the New Zealand squad.
“Going up against Australia’s going to be special,” Ponga said.
A potential fullback showdown against James Tedesco might feel like deja vu after the pair faced off in the NRL grand final, which finished in a gutting one-point loss for Ponga and his Knights.
The Newcastle captain has had to bounce back quickly from that disappointment as he gears up for the World Cup.
“I think that’s rugby league, you know,’ Ponga said of the quick turn-around.
“You’re constantly chasing what’s ahead of you. You don’t really have much time to reflect and sort of sit and stagnate for too long, you’re on to the next goa,” he said…. PACNEWS
AUST – TRIATHLETE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
AFL star-turned triathlete prepares for Hawaii debut
SYDNEY, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Perspective is always close at hand for AFL star-turned triathlete David Zaharakis.
The 36-year-old will make his debut at the Hawaiian Ironman triathlon world championships on Sunday (AEDT), five years after he ended his 226-game career at Essendon.
Make no mistake, this is a big deal. Zaharakis will join a select club of former AFL players who have raced in Hawaii, including Port Adelaide’s Michael Wilson and West Coast’s Beau Waters.
The 35-39 age group is notoriously competitive and Zaharakis qualified for triathlon’s most famous race by finishing 30th overall at this year’s Ironman New Zealand.
But Zaharakis is no Olympic triathlete.
That would be his partner, Natalie Van Coeverden, who raced for Australia in Paris and continues to be among the world’s best long-course triathletes.
Asked who is the top sportsperson in their relationship, after they became an item earlier this year, the ex-AFL star laughed and replied “not even a question”.
“Considering she’s the Olympic triathlete and she’s won five (long-course) 70.3 races this year – and she’s beaten me in every single one we’ve done together – she definitely takes the cake,” Zaharakis told AAP.
“I have no qualms about saying that.
“Nat’s come from a swim background, from five years old, and I’m not a swimmer. I love getting in the pool with her and she absolutely crushes it.
“The benefit is we train together and it really works. It’s awesome, we push each other. I have to try to keep up.”
This is handy, given it is often said that humility is a key to success at the Hawaiian Ironman.
Along with the distances – 3.8km ocean swim, 180km cycle and 42.2km marathon run – Hawaii is particularly brutal for its lava fields that radiate heat and the tropical humidity, plus the Pacific Ocean trade winds that often hammer triathletes during the bike leg.
“The whole day is basically preparing you for the last 12km on the run,” Zaharakis said.
Given this is his first time at Kona, as a competitor or spectator, Zaharakis plans to race conservatively, with no time or performance goals.
He has three Ironman triathlons planned for next year, so this debut is part of a bigger plan.
“For me now, it’s just the complete unknown,” Zaharakis said.
“A few people I’ve spoken to said it took them maybe three or four times racing Kona to fully know the course.
“That’s why I’ve come here with such an open mind, not set any expectations,” he said …. PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Wallabies’ Eden Park curse continues with 50-19 thrashing
AUCKLAND, 12 OCTOBER 20226 (AAP)—Wallabies coach Les Kiss insists their one-sided Bledisloe Cup loss won’t crush the side’s momentum after history repeated at Eden Park.
The All Blacks piled on 26 consecutive second-half points to crush hopes of a hoodoo-busting Wallabies win and maintain their 23-year grip on the Bledisloe Cup.
The hosts, coached by former Wallabies mentor Dave Rennie, won 50-19 on Saturday despite trailing early and left defending their try-line facing another deficit early in the second half.
But, as they have done for decades, the All Blacks wriggled free and then waltzed home behind aerial dominance and blazing flyhalf Damian McKenzie.
Victory extended the All Blacks’ unbeaten streak at the venue to 54 games, dating back to 1994, and was the Wallabies’ first loss in six games under Kiss.
Their 12th straight defeat of the Wallabies ensured the Bledisloe Cup, theirs since 2003, would remain on this side of the Tasman ahead of next week’s Sydney rematch.
And it added another chapter to the Wallabies’ Eden Park woes, with the side now 0-24 since last triumphing at the Auckland stadium a staggering 40 years ago.
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“They got quick ball, put us under pressure, won the aerial battle and we couldn’t get the game into an area we wanted,” said Kiss, who credited All Blacks halfback Cam Roigard’s pinpoint kicking for their high-ball dominance.
“If you get a knockback you find out more about yourself, and that’s what we’ll do.
“We’ll work hard on what we have to do.
“Belief is created and sustained by not just wins and losses.”
The Wallabies began strongly and, after going close twice, found the opener with a brilliant Ben Donaldson tip-pass that set up Tom Wright.
McKenzie then imposed himself with two blazing runs from about halfway and the hosts suddenly led 14-7.
The All Blacks’ No.10, shifted from fullback for this Test after a midweek injury to Richie Mo’uga, contributed to the Wallabies’ 10 missed tackles in the first 30 minutes.
Gun Australian centre Len Ikitau then exited with concussion – he’ll be in serious doubt for the Sydney Test – Harry Potter replacing him on the wing and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii shifted infield.
A Jeremy Williams pilfer halted the All Blacks’ momentum but, after winning a penalty directly in front 35m out, the reliable Ryan Lonergan missed the kick for three points.
McKenzie obliged at the other end to extend the lead, but the Wallabies had the final say of the half.
Suaalii won possession on a high kick and then charged into the line before Donaldson again made the break to set up skipper Harry Wilson under the posts for a 17-14 halftime score.
Australia threatened again from the restart after another clean break, but a costly obstruction in a five-metre lineout spoiled the likely go-ahead try.
The All Blacks, thanks to more good work under high balls, marched down-field and Roigard darted over to make it a 10-point margin.
That seemed to click the hosts into top gear, with Codie Taylor the next over and the 46,352 Auckland faithful finally relaxing into their seats.
Both teams rung the changes but the Wallabies bench, missing the unavailable Taniela Tupou and Tom Hooper, weren’t able to turn the tide.
A late Josh Nasser try ended the All Blacks’ run with five minutes to play, but Will Jordan struck the final nail, winning the sprint to a loose Declan Meredith pass to score after the siren.
Rennie, for once on the right side of a Bledisloe outcome, credited his side’s “mindset, work rate and brutality”, but tipped the Wallabies to rebound.
“It’s a tough end for them, but was nice to catch up and they’ll be hurting,” he said…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
From remote islands to the Bulldogs: Inside the Silktails pathway
LAUTOKA, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (NRL)—When Tevita Wanisi arrived at the Kaiviti Silktails, he had never played rugby league.
The teenager from Fiji’s remote Lau Islands stood at 6’3 and weighed just 67kg.
Three years later, he has developed into a 6’6, 100kg winger and earned a spot in the Canterbury Bulldogs senior pathway program.
“He’s a beautiful kid who comes from humble beginnings,” said Silktails assistant coach Joey Saukuru. “But it’s his willingness to learn and ability to improve that have set him apart.”
Following a standout 2026 Jersey Flegg campaign, Wanisi has become one of the biggest aerial threats, playing a crucial role in the Silktails’ tryscoring success.
“He’s worked hard on his defensive game, and he’s scoring runaway tries,” Saukuru said.
“He’s only played three years of football, and he’s learnt his trade.”
Playing on Wanisi’s inside, 20-year-old Maikeli Sadranu has emerged as the Silktails’ first-choice five-eighth, with a journey to elite rugby league just as compelling as his winger.
For the young playmaker, getting to training is no easy feat.
“He comes from an island just off Lautoka, where we are based,” Saukuru said.
“He catches a boat to the wharf before running to training. He usually gets to training on time and is already warmed up.”
Beyond Sadranu’s unconventional journey to training, it’s the sacrifices he makes away from the game that have left the biggest impression on the Silktails coaches and administrators.
Saukuru recalled asking the young playmaker what he did when he wasn’t at training. The answer said everything.
“Sir, when I get home from training, I go diving. I dive to feed and sell seafood for my family. I rest during the day, then I come to training on the boat, get the boat back home, then get ready to dive.”
With one more year of Jersey Flegg eligibility remaining, Kaiviti Silktails executive director Stephen Driscoll is hopeful Sadranu will be selected for the 2028 Bulldogs senior pathway.
“I’m not sure how many NRL clubs have players catching a boat to training and not coming to recoveries on Mondays because they are diving at night to feed their family,” said Driscoll.
For Driscoll, the success of Wanisi and Sadranu embodies exactly why the Fiji Silktails pathway was created.
“When you think about the Silktails, Tevita and Maikeli epitomise what we’re all about.”
Driscoll emphasises that the Silktails program is underpinned by work, study and education. After identifying athletes from the age of 16, the program strives to keep them engaged in education and employment.
“We run a strict policy around no work, no study, no play,” he said.
“From a holistic point of view, we’re creating standards and building better young men in Fiji. It’s about creating a work ethic at a young age.
“Keeping them in school is really important. We work closely with the teachers on managing attendance.”
The program prepares young men for elite sporting pathways, but more importantly, provides real-world guidance, structure and support.
“We are honest with our players. Not everyone is going to make professional rugby league,” said Driscoll.
“But everyone can have a better life once they leave the program.”
As Fiji grapples with a range of social challenges, Saukuru believes the Silktails program acts as a guiding light.
“There are real things that are happening in Fiji with drugs and youth. This program and rugby league are a positive shining light. In that aspect, we are leading the way,” he said.
“We are beating the drum, giving these kids a future and a positive direction in life.
“Our coaches have travelled to the most remote parts of Fiji’s interior and outer islands in search of talent.”
Beyond talent identification, the Silktails are steadfast in pushing education before play.
Working with Westpac to conduct a ‘Catch and Pass’ program in schools that requires students to complete a financial literacy course before learning the fundamentals of rugby league.
“Everything we do is underpinned by that mentality, particularly for our young kids, that if they want to come out in the field and have fun, they have to get their work done first,” said Driscoll.
“The kids from their remote areas really thrive in these experiences because they don’t usually get access to these programs.”
The Silktails face unique challenges compared to Australian clubs. While many Australian players enter elite development systems in their early teens, the Silktails’ athletes often arrive in their late teens having never played rugby league before.
Wanisi and Sadranu are a testament to the Silktails program, highlighting the outcomes that can be achieved through support and perseverance.
“The Silktails are rugby league with a difference,” said Driscoll.
“When we’re out on the field, we’re all playing the same game, but these guys all have their own stories.
“We have so many challenges along the way to get these players to this point, but it’s all worth it in the end.”…. PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
‘Square that up’: Wallabies ready for response in Sydney following Bledisloe defeat
SYDNEY, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Whatever belief the Wallabies had built in Les Kiss’s winning start will be tested but lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto insists another Eden Park humbling won’t burst their bubble.
Australia scored first then threatened to lead again early in the second half before New Zealand scored 26-straight points and blew the Wallabies out 50-19 at Eden Park.
The win, ahead of Sydney’s rematch on Saturday, maintained New Zealand’s 23-year hold on the Bledisloe Cup and was their 12th-straight win against the Wallabies.
Victory also extended the All Blacks’ unbeaten run at the Auckland stadium to 54 games, since 1994.
“When you give the ABs that much ball and that much ruck speed, it’s hard to beat them when you’re on the back foot like that,” Salakaia-Loto, who played the entire game, said.
“We understand that. They’re a tough, tough outfit, but we go back home, get to regroup, prepare like we did this week.
‘We’re back in our backyard and we’re looking to square that up.”
The Wallabies had beaten South Africa two weeks ago to make it six games unbeaten – five of them under new coach Kiss – for the first time in nine years.
“Our belief isn’t built just based on wins,” the lock, now back and established in the side after missing squad selections under previous coach Joe Schmidt, said.
“Our belief is built through connection throughout the group and our preparation that we do day in, day out.
“Our confidence isn’t shot at all. We get to have another crack at them next week back in Sydney, so we’re looking forward to that.”
The side’s lineout has improved drastically and, for the most part, fired again even without injured lock Josh Canham in Auckland.
But a costly obstruction as the Wallabies, trailing 17-14 just after halftime, went to a maul after a five-metre lineout, will be marked down as a key turning point.
They were also comprehensively beaten in the air, with All Blacks halfback Cam Roigard’s pinpoint bombs creating uncertainty among Australia’s catchers.
Cam Roigard of New ZealandThe influential Cam Roigard dodges Ryan Lonergan of Australia in Saturday’s victory at Eden Park. (Joshua Devenie/AAP PHOTOS)
“There were some big moments that didn’t go our way and we hurt ourselves,” Salakaia-Loto said.
“So we’ve only got ourselves to blame, but we know that we fix that up and we take those opportunities like we did in the first half, we go a long way to doing the things that we want to do,” he said…. PACNEWS
SENEGL – YOUTH OLYMPICS: INSIDE THE GAMES PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Dakar to host ‘Sport for Development Summit’
DAKAR, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (INSIDE THE GAMES) —Ahead of the Youth Olympics, the Senegalese capital will host a two-day gathering on 30 and 31 October, bringing together business and development representatives to discuss investment opportunities, partnerships and the event’s long-term legacy.
Held under the high patronage and in the presence of Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye, President of the Republic of Senegal, the Summit will bring together heads of state, international sports leaders, investors, financial institutions, businesses and development partners under the theme ‘Sport for Development: From Olympic Momentum to Lasting Legacy’.
Building on the first edition held alongside the Olympic Games Paris 2024, the Sport for Development Summit 2026 will examine the growing role of sport in Africa’s economy and its potential to accelerate investment, innovation, youth employment, tourism, social inclusion and international cooperation.
“The Sport for Development Summit 2026 in Dakar is an opportunity to think beyond the Youth Olympic Games themselves. It is a chance for Senegal, and for Africa, to demonstrate our capacity to host major international sporting events and to build a lasting legacy for future generations,” said President Faye.
“Moving the next generation forward is a priority for Senegal and we want Dakar 2026 to create new opportunities for our young people, particularly through employment and the development of the sports economy. Through this Summit, we are bringing together the partners who can help turn that ambition into lasting action,” Faye added.
The Summit will begin on 30 October with the Youth, Sports & Business Forum, bringing together leaders from sport and business to explore how the development of the sports economy can create new opportunities for Senegal’s youth, including jobs and careers. Discussions will span sports diplomacy, the African sports industry, financing, infrastructure, tourism, broadcasting, sponsorship and the wider economic impact of sport.
On 31 October, it will move to a High-Level Dialogue, bringing together Heads of State and senior leaders to consider how sport can contribute to Africa’s development and global influence. Young athletes, entrepreneurs and creators will also have the opportunity to put forward their ideas and ambitions directly to decision-makers. The programme will conclude with the adoption of the Dakar Declaration, establishing a shared framework for turning the momentum of Dakar 2026 into longer-term legacy and investment.
The Sport for Development Summit Dakar 2026 will aim to move the conversation from the value of sporting events to the value they can create for societies and economies, ensuring that the legacy of the Youth Olympic Games Dakar 2026 extends far beyond the closing ceremony…. PACNEWS
DEU – OLYMPICS: INSIDE THE GAMES PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 12 Oct 2026
Rauhe sees positive IOC signals for Munich 2036
MUNICH, 12 OCTOBER 2026 (INSIDE THE GAMES) —Germany’s minister of state for sport said this week that International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry had responded favourably to the Bavarian capital’s bid to host the Games during a telephone call with him and Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
In an interview with the German news magazine Der Spiegel, Rauhe highlighted the importance Coventry had attached to Germany’s role within the European Olympic Movement.
“She was very grateful that we are pressing ahead with Munich’s bid and sees us as a driving force for Europe. Those were very positive signals,” the minister explained, although his interpretation of her remarks does not amount to official IOC backing for the German bid.
Building on those encouraging initial impressions, Rauhe now intends to arrange a face-to-face meeting with Coventry and Merz, in coordination with the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and Munich City Council. No date has yet been set, with Berlin and Lausanne under consideration as possible venues. “At that meeting, we want to present the German bid in greater detail and, of course, promote Germany as a leading hub for sport,” he told Der Spiegel.
The federal government’s involvement is another important element of that strategy, particularly given the commitment Rauhe believes Merz has shown towards bringing the Games back to Germany. “You can tell he really wants to bring the Games home,” he told, expressing confidence in the chancellor’s determination to support a project intended to bring together political, sporting and institutional efforts.
Despite that support, the minister, a two-time Olympic canoeing champion, was keen to make clear that the DOSB would remain in charge of the process, as the body responsible for formally submitting the bid to the IOC.
“The DOSB is taking the lead because it is responsible for submitting the bid to the International Olympic Committee,” he explained, while stressing that the initiative should be regarded as a joint effort. “The DOSB will have a strong team behind it,” he added.
Such cooperation has taken on particular importance since Munich defeated Cologne-Rhine-Ruhr in the national selection process held in late September, after Hamburg had dropped out following the rejection of its plans in a referendum and Berlin had withdrawn its proposal before the vote. The decision made the Bavarian city, which previously hosted the 1972 Games, Germany’s candidate for the 2036, 2040 or 2044 editions.
With the domestic selection settled, Munich’s next challenge is to demonstrate that it has a project capable of competing internationally, with organisers planning to make extensive use of existing facilities. The Olympic Park built for the 1972 Games would accommodate almost half of the venues, while 90 percent would be located within 30 kilometres of the proposed Olympic Village in Daglfing, which is intended to be converted afterwards into housing for more than 10,000 people.
The plans also envisage using landmark locations and distributing certain competitions across other cities and towns, with canoe slalom in Augsburg, sailing in Kiel and open-water swimming in Lake Starnberg. This emphasis on making use of existing infrastructure and reducing travel distances reflects the priorities outlined in the IOC’s new handbook, although the project’s viability will also depend on securing the necessary funding.
Current estimates put the overall cost at around €10 billion (US$11.20 billion) divided roughly equally between staging the Games and investment in infrastructure. Financing had already emerged as an issue following Munich’s selection, when Bavarian Minister-President Markus Söder called for firm financial guarantees, a requirement that will become increasingly important as the international selection process progresses.
Alongside financial strength, the German organisers will also have to demonstrate continued public support. Although 66.4 percent of voters backed the bid in a referendum held in October 2025, the IOC will commission a new independent survey to measure public approval using a methodology that allows comparisons between the different bids. The results will provide a common basis for assessing that support, regardless of any consultations previously conducted.
Munich’s Olympic coordinator, Michael Asbeck, said that information about the IOC’s procedures and potential rivals had already been incorporated into preparations for the bid, while expressing confidence in the city’s prospects.
“The enthusiasm of Munich’s residents for the Olympics is a major strength of our bid. We have a strong case for ultimately succeeding on the international stage,” he told Frankfurter Rundschau, adding that the city was approaching the international competition with confidence.
That scrutiny will come in a considerably more demanding environment than the domestic selection process, with Germany among seven countries that have informed the IOC of their interest in hosting the 2036 Games. The other six are Qatar, India, South Korea, Hungary, Türkiye and South Africa, whose differing proposals involve cities including Doha, Ahmedabad, Jeonju, Budapest and Istanbul, alongside a nationwide South African project centred on Cape Town.
The field could still expand, as the IOC will continue accepting new expressions of interest until 31 October. All interested parties must present their plans to the Future Host Commission in November, during a phase known as Continuous Dialogue, in which the IOC is already conducting technical assessments and providing guidance on venues, financing and legacy.
The selection process, updated following the IOC’s approval of the ‘Fit for the Future’ reforms, is designed to assess both the ability to stage the Games and the benefits they could deliver to host communities, with particular emphasis on political and public support, sustainability and the athlete experience. When presenting the new guidelines, Coventry highlighted the importance of the latter.
“But wherever the Games take place, one thing must never change: athletes have to be at the heart of everything we do,” she said.
The initial assessments are expected to be completed in March 2027, when the IOC Executive Board will decide which projects advance to Strategic Dialogue, a phase involving more demanding technical, legal and financial requirements, as well as visits to prospective host regions. In December 2028, a limited number of Preferred Hosts will be selected to enter Targeted Dialogue, before IOC members vote on the host in mid-2029.
For Germany, that timetable leaves open a longer-term prospect beyond 2036, as Munich has also been selected to pursue the 2040 and 2044 editions should it miss out on the first. For now, the encouraging signals Rauhe says he received from Coventry provide a starting point for stepping up contacts, but the bid’s future will depend on its ability to meet the IOC’s requirements and compete with the other contenders…. PACNEWS
