In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS

In this bulletin:

1. RUGBY — Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger
7.RUGBY LEAGUE — Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series
8. RUGBY– Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways
9. POWERLIFTING — Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games
10. RUGBY — Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup
11. RUGBY — ‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor
12. FOOTBALL— Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

SAMOA – RUGBY: TALAMUA ONLINE  PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoa Rugby to elect first executive board

APIA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (PACNEWS) — The Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) will elect its first Executive Board at its inaugural Annual General Meeting on 11 November, marking a key step in establishing the newly formed organisation’s governance structure.

The meeting, to be held at the Sheraton Hotel in Apia, will also consider the union’s interim financial report, activities and strategic priorities since its establishment.

SRFU was registered with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Labour in June 2026 and officially launched on 31 July after the Government ceased recognising Lakapi Samoa.

The new union was formed by former Lakapi Samoa members, including former Manu Samoa players and coaches, under the leadership of former Manu Samoa player Matafeo George Latu.

The AGM will consider the interim unaudited financial report covering the period from the union’s establishment to 31 October 2026, alongside a report from the Interim Board outlining its activities, strategic priorities and operational plans.

A major item on the agenda is the selection of the first Executive Board, which will comprise six sub-union representatives, including five from Upolu and one from Savai’i, one secondary school rugby representative and four independent members selected through a vetting committee.

Members will also consider the appointment of an independent external auditor for the union’s first financial year.

Meanwhile, SRFU has opened applications for the position of Men’s Sevens Head Coach.

The successful applicant will provide technical leadership, coaching and performance development for the union’s men’s sevens programme.

Responsibilities will include developing and implementing structured coaching and training programmes, establishing team tactics and playing structures, and recommending player selections in accordance with the union’s approved selection procedures…..PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Our best is to come’: Samoa’s Cup warning to Australia

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (AAP)—The smarting Samoans candidly concede the pain of losing the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final is a huge driver ahead of a semi-final showdown with Australia four years on.

Skipper Junior Paulo on Wednesday stopped short of revealing revenge was the prime motivation but admitted the shattering feeling of losing 30-10 to the Kangaroos in the last title decider still stings.

“Look, to lose a grand final like that, I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t burning,” Paulo said ahead of Sunday night’s shot at redemption at Allianz Stadium.

“We’ve only got a few boys who are part of that squad. I’m not going to compare the two teams, given ’22 was one of those achievements that we thought would probably not get to.

“But that’s ’22 and this is 2026 and, with the squad that we’ve got now, everyone’s just keen on moving forward and obviously you want to look back and find ways to motivate the team.

“I don’t think that’s going to be a problem for us this week.”

Paulo says it’s imperative the class of 2026 see this opportunity as a chance to create something special for the people of their tiny nation.

“I had plenty of off-season time after that last World Cup, but it’s still going to be burning and for those guys who were part of that team too,” he said.

“So it’s a privilege to be in this position for us and it’s an opportunity to be a part of history and hopefully what can be one of the biggest upsets.”

Samoa find themselves trying to conjure that upset against the three-time defending champion Kangaroos after falling 20-18 to fierce Pasifika rivals Tonga on Sunday.

The despairing defeat sapped the Samoans as much psychologically as physically.

“It was such an emotional time for everybody,” Paulo said.

“We’ve had a good couple of days now just to emotionally regulate. I guess the immense pressure that sort of came with the game as well, it was really good for us to get a bit of change of scenery to come here to Coogee and give the boys a couple of days off to pretty much reset.”

The Kangaroos have come under scrutiny for escaping late with unconvincing wins over New Zealand and Fiji, but Samoan prop Francis Molo said it would be foolish to ‘buy into that’.

“We’re expecting a lot from the Australians. They’d be be pretty fired up by a lot of criticism,” Molo said.

“Yeah, definitely, Australia’s a quality, quality side from the one to 19. You couldn’t expect anything less from them.

“We’ve got to worry about ourselves, get ourselves right and get our confidence.”

Molo, though, also fired a subtle warning to the tournament hosts and favourites following Samoa’s narrow loss to Tonga, who face New Zealand in the first semi-final in Newcastle on Saturday.

“Even though we went down by two, we took a lot of confidence out of that game as a team,” he said.

“Our best is yet to come. We’re still building combinations that we’re working on and I don’t think we’ve hit our straps just yet,” he said…PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL                PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga’s ‘crazy’ win has Toia daring to dream of world domination

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Tonga talent Rob Toia is daring to dream of a perfect finish to his season which would see his tiny nation hold aloft this year’s IRL World Cup trophy.

After starring in Tonga’s pulsating 20-18 win over Samoa, Toia was soaking in the feeling of beating their island rivals for the first time since 2018 and knew he had made the right call to stay with the red army.

Coming off a premiership season with the Roosters, Toia – who is also eligible for New Zealand and Australia – was in hot demand for the international tournament.

“To be honest, it wasn’t as easy as I wanted it to be, but in the end, I was so happy with my decision and moments like these, it’s a no-brainer,” said Toia, who made his Test debut with Tonga in the 2025 Pacific Championships.

“(We know) how much it means to those people and it’s so crazy how much they go above and beyond just to watch us and support us.

“That’s probably up there with one of my most cherished wins.

“It’s so crazy to get that win and especially after last year’s campaign and them beating us and the way they did it to us as well…

“We kind of had a point to prove, so that was a special win.

“Woolfy touched on that… and he wants us to celebrate these wins because we hadn’t beaten them since 2018.

“We have to celebrate these wins, this is like an Origin feeling for us.”

Now preparing for their semi-final against New Zealand, Toia said he was motivated to put right Tonga’s poor international campaign last year.

“Last year, I think we learnt our lesson in preparation,” Toia said.

“I feel like this year, the boys are really switched on in our preparation and how we train, where last year I feel like we – because we knew we had a good team last year – we kind of just used the team list to our advantage and we just kind of relaxed a bit.

“Whereas this year, I feel like we’ve really stepped in that that direction where, even though we’re a good team (on paper), we start by preparing well and then showcase it on game day.

“The belief within the group’s so high, so we feel like we can win the competition.

“Within us, the belief’s an all-time high, so I think that’s all that matters.”

To finish the year by becoming the first Tier 2 nation to win the tournament was another motivating factor that would cap an incredible season for the Dally M Centre of the Year.

“For it to be the last thing to tick off this year as well, that would be so much special,” Toia said.

“I feel like it’s a pretty hard thing to do considering the year, it’s a long year with Origin and then with club footy as well, so to do this at the end of the year, this would mean so much,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Samoan Volkman swaps video games for the biggest game of his life

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Samoa five-eighth Ronald Volkman has never played against Australia on the international stage… wait a minute, he did once when he challenged them in a video game. 

“Never played them but I have on Play Station,” Volkman said. “But I didn’t win.” 

Now the 24-year-old half has a chance to change all that and meet the Kangaroos in real life as he steps into the No.6 jersey for Sunday’s World Cup semi-final in Sydney.

Volkman takes over from Chanel Harris-Tavita, who suffered a hamstring injury trying to convert Brian To’o’s second try in the 20-18 loss to Tonga last Sunday.

“I didn’t see him (get injured). I was warming up in the corner and then just heard my name and turned around to see Chanel coming from the field,” Volkman said. 

“I had to lock-in pretty quick, get on the field, and do a role. 

“I didn’t really think about it too much, which is probably good for me. So I just went out and tried to the do the best I could for my boys and for my country.” 

Volkman checked in on Harris-Tevita as soon as he could after full-time, as the pair have history playing together at the Warriors in 2022.

“He’s definitely someone I look up to…. but the way to show respect is getting on that field and doing a job for him.” 

That he did with a stunning solo try that put Samoa in front with 12 minutes to play before Addin Fonua-Blake’s four-pointer sealed the match for Tonga. 

Volkman said his 27 minutes on the field gave him confidence for Sunday. 

“It does, but for now it’s about getting our bodies right, planning well for the week ahead as the team we are playing is a pretty good team,” he said.

Although heading into his third season with Parramatta next year, Volkman remembers watching Samoa’s push to the World Cup final in 2022. 

“I was at home in New Zealand and in the middle of pre-season with the Warriors,” he said.

“I remember watching that final – seeing my home country get to those heights – made me want to do it to… get on the field for my country. 

“I sort of have to pinch myself a little bit to realise I’m here.” 

Samoa is now one game away of returning to the World Cup final and Volkman says they can go all the way. 

“One hundred per cent. Look at the scoreboard and we only lost (to Tonga) by two and they had star power all over the place,” he said.

“So it’s good for us heading into this week because now we’ve got a bit of a chip on our shoulder after that loss.” 

He agrees the pressure on Tao Samoa is different from four years ago – then it was a pleasant surprise to see them get that far, now it’s expected. 

“You definitely have to embrace it because where we are now is a big difference,” Volkman said. 

“We’ve got the staff here to help us with the pressure and negating any distractions.” 

Coach Ben Gardiner knows his young five-eighth can handle it. 

“He did a fantastic job for us in our second game (15 minutes against PNG). He came on at the back end of the game in a slightly different role for a different reason,” he said.

“And he did a really good job when he came on against Tonga. I thought he brought great energy. I thought his speed into the line really put pressure on their defence.” 

The chance to partner with skipper Jarome Luai and plot to bring down the world champions is a moment to savour for Volkman in just his fourth international.

“He’s going to be enormous for us. It’s natural for him to step up in big moments and that’s exactly what we need in our team,” Volkman said. 

“We do have a lot of players like that but when Romy does it, it makes everyone else want to try to do it too. 

“He’s very competitive in what he does and he backs his own words – got to respect that. 

“He gives me the confidence to do what I do,” he said….PACNEWS

PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL       PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Lahanis four join PNG Hunters for 2027

PORT MORESBY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Four Goroka Lahanis players have been selected into the PNG Hunters squad for next season’s Queensland Hostplus Cup competition.

Lahanis board member Chapman Namaro welcomed their selection.

The four selected are Hercules Kondo, Jack Gasie, Sefa Dait and Majo Joel.

“As a board Member of Goroka Lahanis, I am proud to see four of our locally-bred talents selected for the PNG Hunters preseason squad,” Namaro said.

He said their selection confirmed that Eastern Highlands has talent and skills needed to advance to higher levels of rugby league.

“Talent and skills can open doors and, with discipline, dedication and hard work, you can go places,” Namaro said.

To the players, he said: “Make every moment count, stay humble, remain focused, respect your coaches and work harder to achieve more in rugby league.” He reminded the four that they were

not just representing themselves, but will carry the pride of Goroka Lahanis, Eastern Highlands and the many young players who look up to them.

“Go out there, represent us well and make us proud,” he said….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL               PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Turbo charged tryscoring feats make Tommy the No.1 winger

SYDNEY, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (NRL)—Renowned fullback Tom Trbojevic has silenced the critics in the best way possible about his shift to the wing for the Kangaroos with hat-tricks in consecutive games against Fiji and Cook Islands. 

His seven tries in three games on the right edge have played no small part in getting Australia to Sunday’s World Cup semi-finals, where they face Samoa at Allianz Stadium. 

Commentary around Trbojevic being a far better fullback than he is a winger has not fazed him. 

Many have forgotten Turbo’s first Test for Australia was on the wing against France in the 2017 World Cup. 

His NRL debut season for the Manly Sea Eagles (2015) was spent entirely on the wing before he switched to No.1 midway through 2016. 

So in light of his recent points-grab for Australia, is Trbojevic a better winger than he is a fullback?

“Well, I wouldn’t go that far… look opinions are opinions,” he told NRL.com. 

“I’ve always said that fullback feels the most natural to me. 

“But to come into rep teams you are happy just to play anywhere they need you. Given my body type and what I’ve done in the past, I can adapt to a few positions.” 

Trboejvic has played six of his 10 Tests so far at centre, and seven of his 10 Origins at centre – the other games for both teams have been on the wing. 

So for the Blues or Kangaroos, the 2021 Dally M Medalist and Fullback of the Year has never played No.1.  

The 30-year-old has also never played with Kotoni Staggs before until named in the 2026 World Cup squad. 

The pair are forming a tight combination on Australia’s right edge, where they will take on Samoa’s Izack Tago and Sua Fa’alogo on Sunday. 

“It does take a little time for us to be exposed to certain situations again and being able to solve those,” Trbojevic said of the partnership with Staggs. 

“It’s being able to adapt to each other and work hard at training together.

“Kotoni is a very powerful and aggressive player. It’s great having him right alongside me. 

“Off the field he’s very easy going, loves a laugh. He’s a great fella and even better to work with.”

Staggs admitted the pair had needed to find their groove. 

“Tommy is obviously not in his first-choice position on the wing but we’ve had three games together now and each time we’ve got better,” Staggs said. 

“I feel the game against Cook Islands was our best defensive game together and that’s all we were worried about. 

“We know we’ve got a lot to offer in attack but playing alongside him, having Tommy’s experience around me, helps my game too.” ….PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY  LEAGUE: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Tonga-Samoa rivalry offers opportunity for annual Pacific rugby league series

AUCKLAND, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC)—Tonga’s 20-18 win over Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) has renewed discussion about the possibility of an annual series between the Pacific rivals.

The two sides produced a thrilling contest at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium on Sunday night in front of a record crowd of 29,411.

The match also attracted a television audience, averaging 1.502 million viewers, with the broadcast reaching a reported 2.93 million people.

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) sports academic Dr Sarah Wymer told Pacific Waves the interest surrounding both teams presents an opportunity to build something more regular.

“Sometimes when we try to force these annual series, we are trying to force a rivalry or convincing people to care about something new,” Wymer said.

“But in this case, that rivalry, the history, the audience are already there, so it’s a way to tap into it better and to build into that interest.”

Wymer said digital media has played a significant role in growing the profile of the teams, particularly Samoa, with players and community content creators helping generate conversation and engagement.

She said an annual fixture could create a more consistent offering for fans, sponsors and broadcasters.

“The big thing for me is that fans, sponsors, and broadcasters can look forward to this every year. It’s an annual event.

“If there was an annual event with those on the calendar, it would allow more regular investment.”

Wymer said consistent fixtures could make it easier for the teams and their organisations to attract sponsorship and broadcasting deals.

She believes a best-of-three series would offer the strongest commercial opportunity, with matches potentially rotating between Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific.

But she pointed out challenges about whether a three-game series could fit into rugby league’s already crowded international calendar.

The Rugby League Players Association has limits on the number of international fixtures players can take part in, while changes to eligibility rules could create further complications around players’ State of Origin commitments.

Wymer said any commercial success must also support the development of Pacific rugby league and the communities supporting the teams.

“It’s really important that we think about who actually benefits from that money,” she says.

She said revenue could strengthen national rugby league federations, support grassroots and women’s rugby league, and create more employment opportunities in sport.

Wymer said the people helping generate interest in the teams also need to see the gains.

“A lot of the people who are creating that great media at the moment for Samoa are doing it for the love of the game and with limited resources.”

She said there is a risk of celebrating the commercial success of Pacific rugby league without strengthening the organisations and systems that support it.

Wymer believes representatives from the national federations and players need to be involved in decisions about how a series is developed.

She said those voices should be heard at the NRL and International Rugby League, rather than decisions being made on behalf of Pacific nations.

“I would see it as a co-approach of having voices at the table rather than people speaking on behalf of.”

Tonga will now face New Zealand in the men’s semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle on Saturday, 7 November.

Samoa will take on defending champions Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney the following day, Sunday, 8 November…..PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS                   PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Fijian Latui to strengthen Fiji Rugby’s international pathways

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Fiji Rugby is banking on the newly launched Fijian Latui to strengthen its international pathways and prepare the next generation of players for the demands of professional rugby.

Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu says the new senior men’s representative team, which replaces the Fiji Warriors, will give players valuable exposure in Europe and the United Kingdom while creating international development opportunities for coaches and officials.

Sewabu says the initiative is about more than establishing another team, but creating a stronger pathway for Fijian talent to progress to the highest level.

“We want our national teams to perform consistently at the highest level, and to achieve that, we need to strengthen our pathways.”

He believes the Latui will complement existing development programmes and give national selectors a wider pool of players who are better prepared for international rugby.

The programme will also help Fiji Rugby build stronger relationships with overseas clubs and organisations, ensuring the country benefits from the global demand for Fijian talent.

The Latui are scheduled to assemble in Cork, Ireland, on November 11, ahead of their European campaign.

Sewabu says the long-term goal is to ensure the success of Fijian players overseas also creates greater opportunities and value for rugby back home.

The team is expected to assemble in Cork, Ireland by next Wednesday and will play their first match against Ireland A…PACNEWS

PAC – POWERLIFTING: FIJI SUN           PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Team Fiji powerlifters build towards Pacific Games

SUVA, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Despite limited facilities, Team Fiji is developing powerlifters to compete against the region’s best at the Oce­ania Regional Powerlifting and Bench Press Championships at Suva’s National Gymna­sium.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday; competi­tion director Neha Ali said the equipment provides an important boost for the sport in Fiji.

“We are a very small sport in a very small country; and we are competing against countries that attend world events,” she said.

“Through this competition and a grant from the Fiji Sports Commission, we have been able to get equipment that we will now use to develop our athletes for future competitions.

Ali said the team is now looking ahead to next year’s Pacific Games, with hope of tak­ing eight male and female athletes, while providing opportunities for other lifters to compete at world events.

She also highlighted Team Fiji’s perfor­mance on Monday; the opening day of com­petition where they won 20 gold, 10 silver and six bronze medals.

Ali said the competition also provided a chance for older athletes to demonstrate their strength and ability.

“It was really nice to see athletes in their 70s and 80s competing. We also have master’s athletes in their 40s and 50s, and Fiji now has competitors in those categories,” she said.

Ali also praised George Speight for setting a new masters world record of 107.5kg on Mon­day, which she said was also a new Oceania masters record.

“To show this amount of strength at this age is remarkable. Despite the difficulties, these athletes are coming onto the stage, winning medals and setting records. It is an incred­ible achievement for Fiji,” she added…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Australia Women take out Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup

TOKYO, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia has shone at the Deaf Rugby Sevens World Cup, with the women taking out the third edition of the tournament.

The Women defeated England 31-14 in the Final, avenging their earlier group-stage loss, while the Men finished second after losing to England.

The Australian women got off to a flyer, scoring the opener inside the first 90 seconds, as England quickly answered back.

England had defeated Australia 24-17 earlier in the tournament, but Australia dominated the first half.

They built a 24-7 lead right before the break, holding strong in defence to repel England’s attack.

The strong second-half defence proved the difference, eventually capping off the win with a late try for the title.

The Aussies started day one flawlessly, not conceding a point in wins over Fiji and Wales, before dropping a game against England.

A 22-5 win over Fiji booked their spot in the decider, avenging their loss to be crowned champions.

Meanwhile, it was a similar path for the Men, defeating Fiji 31-14 in the semi-finals, however, they were unable to stop the might of the English after opening the scoring.

England piled on 45 unanswered points to take the crown, having defeated previous champions Wales in the semi-finals.

Australia started its tournament with wins over Japan and Italy, then lost to England in their final pool-stage match.

This booked them a quarter-final against Samoa, which they beat, along with the Fijians, to reach the Final….PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU         PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

‘Unfinished business’: Kurtley’s back with his X-factor

LONDON, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Kurtley Beale was asked if he still possessed that ‘X-factor’ that made him a mercurial marvel for the Wallabies for so long and he couldn’t help but beam: “What do you reckon?!”

For at the grand old age of 37, the evergreen maverick talent may be pinching himself at being brought into the squad for Australia’s northern hemisphere leg of the Rugby Nations Championship, but he’s adamant he never lost belief he’d be back one day.

And as he reflected on his shock comeback to the green-and-gold at the Wallabies’ Teddington HQ on Tuesday, Beale wasn’t just musing on the possibility of a first Test outing for five years against England at nearby Twickenham on Sunday but even pondering a shot at a fourth World Cup on home soil next year.

“Very honoured, and very humbling to be back,” beamed Beale, who’s in the extraordinary position of being in the national squad while only on a season-long ‘train-and-trial’ deal with Western Force.

But coach Les Kiss has made it clear Beale, who’s replaced Hunter Paisami, is not in Europe to hold the pads, with the utility back himself reiterating. “I was still pinching myself on the flight over … but my role now is to create some competition within the team.

“It’s been a been a while now since I’ve been in the squad, but I’ve been working really hard. 

“I just kept believing to be able to get another opportunity, and obviously started that with the Force, I’ve been chipping away at my work there, and really, really excited to be back and to add some value to the group.””

Asked if he ever felt, especially after his June 2024 Achilles rupture for Randwick that had many penning his rugby-playing obituary, that his Wallabies’ days were done, Beale reflected: “No, with my experience, being in and around the Force and Super Rugby, I always thought I was able to still add to the group, to the game.

“I just kept believing. I felt like there was some unfinished business, but I guess the focus was always on trying to make sure my body was right and my mind in a good headspace.

“I’ve had great support with my family, my wife, and two kids, so I’m very blessed there, and really grateful that I’m here to be able to be amongst the the lads, taking on some great nations up here. It’s another exciting opportunity.”

Extraordinarily, it’s now 17 years since the equivalent 2009 tour when Beale made his debut as a 20-year-old replacement wing to help Australia beat Wales in Cardiff, and the year later he scored two tries at Twickenham in a losing cause…..PACNEWS

MORROCO – FOOTBALL: FIFA            PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 05 Nov 2026

Inspiration and legacy on display at FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme in Rabat

RABAT, 05 NOVEMBER 2026 (FFA)—The stars of tomorrow from all corners of the world are testing their skills this month at the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, there are similar learnings taking place for a range of inspirational participants at the FIFA Women in Football Leadership event in the capital, Rabat.

Led by senior leaders from FIFA, the FIFA Women in Football Leadership programme is designed to address the need for more female representation in football’s decision-making bodies across all levels of the game. It is one of 13 Women’s Football Development Programmes offered to FIFA’s 211 Member Associations (MAs).

Fifty participants representing all six confederations convened in the Moroccan capital for a concentrated four-day learning programme. The participants have also had an opportunity to watch the exciting matches of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup as well as visit the FIFA office in Rabat.

Hosted between 18 and 21 October, the programme coincided with the opening week of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™. Assembled in Rabat alongside graduates of cohort two were an equal number of new faces enjoying their first experience as part of cohort three. FIFA Chief Women’s Football Officer, Dame Sarai Bareman, FIFA Council Member, Dr Johanna Wood, and representatives of FIFA’s Women’s Football division were also in attendance.

“Congratulations to all the participants who came together in Rabat,” said Ms Bareman. “Bringing our two cohorts together has been an invaluable opportunity for these amazing women, from all corners of the globe, to learn from one another, share experiences and build relationships with other women who are passionate about shaping the future of football.

“As a graduate of this programme myself, I know first-hand the impact it can have. It helped shape my own journey, and I genuinely believe I would not be in the role I am today without it. My hope is that everyone leaves Rabat with new perspectives, stronger connections and a renewed belief in what they can achieve – because when we empower more women to lead, we strengthen our entire game.”

Among the graduating class was Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez, President of Mexico’s Liga MX Femenil, who hailed the solidarity and inspiration of a diverse group all united by one goal.

“I would define [the experience] as magical,” she said. “I just know that I have to go back to Mexico and [with] everything I’ve learned here, not only share that, but try to make women thrive for the power they have in themselves.

“There are people that I admire so deeply, a lot of respect for them, but I saw their transformation process. I saw how they began to lead with purpose and how it actually impacted me.

“I would say that this type of programme reminds you that you have the power in you. I have always [thought] about women’s football… being part of the solution rather than being part of the problem.”

Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong, Head of Women’s Football Development at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said: “Leadership is not just about the position, I believe, but I think the kind of legacy or the impact or the inspiration that you’ll be able to leave for the people you’re leading.

“I hold it (in) very high esteem to be part of this programme. I have learned a lot, [and] I have had one-on-one communications with almost every participant in cohort two. Through that, it has expanded my idea of thinking, planning, and how to execute my projects in my role at the GFA.”

With less than a year until the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027™, Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) Infrastructure Asset Director, Catherine Cunha Veloso had some special insights about the potential for women’s football – and women in football – to exponentially grow and leave a long-term legacy.

“When I started taking leadership positions, I began to question myself more,” she said. “I want to learn more about leadership skills, and having worked predominantly in a male-dominated environment, I also found myself comparing [myself] with my male colleagues.

“So, this programme was an opportunity for me. I wanted to develop my leadership skills and learn from women facing similar or different challenges in football. I learned here that I could be a good leader in different styles, and I learned a lot of tools that can be helpful in my leadership career.

“I think this (FIFA Women’s) World Cup will increase the visibility of women’s football and accelerate the development in many different ways. I hope this impact will extend beyond Brazil’s borders, inspiring girls to know they could belong in any environment they choose to be part of, even football – inside or outside the field of play.”

Second cohort

Briana Harvey (Australia), Amio Mavaega-Luvu (American Samoa), Laura Andrea Sánchez (Argentina), Garin Shorjian (Armenia), Dyane Wiersma (Aruba), Gulbanu Isayeva (Azerbaijan), Catherine Negreiros Carneiro C. Veloso (Brazil), Latoya Dacosta (Concacaf), Teretia Teinaki (Cook Islands), Laura Jurcevic (Croatia), Laura Christensen Hald (Denmark), Ketevan Kipiani (Georgia), Christin May (Germany), Jennifer Amankwaa Sarpong (Ghana), Ramadhana Wulandiani (Indonesia), Mariana Gutiérrez Bernárdez (Mexico), Aleyda Isabel Lira Tucket (Nicaragua), Silvia Caballero Greco (Paraguay), Abrar Al Kaabi (Aramco), Shirley Martin (Scotland), Nogaye Diongue (Senegal), Examin Philbert (St Lucia), Nesrine Laamari (Tunisia), Yuliya Panina (Uzbekistan).

Third cohort

Faten Abi Faraj (Lebanon), Arphawan Sungsiri (Thailand), Samira Al Shukaili (Oman), Yevgeniya Spirina (Turkmenistan), Libby Turner (Aramco), Ampaire Sheba Ronah (Uganda), Aubierge Immaculee Senan Agbakou (Benin), Fatoumata binta berete (Guinea), Jacqueline Kamwamu (Tanzania), Malo Petula Sophia Fernande (Central African Republic), Milcah Modong Yuggs (South Sudan), Alisha Cummings (Guyana), Aracely Garcia Ramos (Guatemala), Candia Ewing (Turks and Caicos Islands), Carlene Edwards (Jamaica), Andreina Pelaez (Venezuela), Ivonett Paredes Peredo (Peru), Mei Nagaoka (CONMEBOL), Tatiana Burgos Torres (Ecuador), Veronica Numbela Rios (Bolivia), Sepiuta Akanesi (Tonga), Clare Daniels (England), Dorottya Dénes (Hungary), Jadranka Pavičević (Montenegro), Patrycja Maciąg (Poland)….PACNEWS