In this bulletin:
1. FOOTBALL — Vanuatu United FC and Auckland FC battle to goalless draw
2. FOOTBALL — PNG Hekari FC and Tahiti United share spoils after late drama
3. RUGBY — Julian Savea back, Joel Lam debuts, Augustine Pulu suspended: Moana Pasifika face big week
4. RUGBY — Minimal changes to Drua for Reds clash
5. RUGBY — Volavola to make Reds debut off the bench against Drua
6. CRICKET — ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier squad announced
7. CRICKET — Siale’s squad named for World Cup Qualifiers
8. VOLLEYBALL — Volleyball fundraiser backs Cook Islands teams ahead of international event
9. FOOTBALL — Ford Football Ferns Squad Named for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania Qualifiers Finals in New Zealand
10. NETBALL — Pacific federations unite through netball
11. RUGBY — Fiji’s Prime Minister Rabuka wishes Fijiana 15s Team well
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Vanuatu United FC and Auckland FC battle to goalless draw
HONIARA, 19 MARCH 2026 (OFC) — Vanuatu United FC and Auckland FC settled for a 0-0 draw in their OFC Pro League clash at the National Stadium in Honiara, marking their second encounter of the season.
Vanuatu United carried confidence into the match after handing South Melbourne FC their first defeat of the competition, while Auckland FC looked to continue their strong campaign, having defeated Solomon Kings FC 1-0 at the weekend.
Auckland FC controlled most of the possession in the first-half at Honiara’s National Stadium, creating the better chances with Aston Burns and James Bayliss threatening down the left, while Vanuatu United’s main goal threat Alex Saniel kept Auckland FC’s defence on high alert with his pace on the counter.
Vanuatu United sat in a solid low-block in the early stages to counter their opponents pressing and width, keeping the visitors to half-chances. Auckland FC’s defence held firm though against the pacey counter-attacks, with Aidan Carey anchoring their backline.
Reid Drake came close to scoring the opener late in the half for the New Zealand side, as he was fed from the right to set up a close-range effort, but the ball landed in the hands of a grateful Matt Acton.
In the second period, the sides ramped up the intensity in search of a breakthrough with both coming close to scoring in the opening minutes. Auckland FC’s Drake fired a shot from close range that drifted wide, while Vanuatu United’s Kerry Iawak and Saniel tested the keeper with two powerful strikes as they pushed for the opener.
As the heat and fatigue set in, both coaches injected some energy off the bench. Auckland FC substitute Tass Mourdoukoutas produced a close chance, with his header from a set-play denied by Matt Acton. Vanuatu United’s Kathy Iamak combined well with Alex Saniel up front, with their pace and power a threat without truly testing Oscar Mason in goal.
The league leaders continued to threaten through set-pieces and corners, but were unable to convert with Vanuatu United’s defence holding firm to secure a well-earned point.
Both teams finish Round 4 in Honiara with a win and a draw each, and now head to Fiji for their remaining fixtures.
Vanuatu United FC: 0
Auckland FC: 0
HT: 0-0…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
PNG Hekari FC and Tahiti United share spoils after late drama
HONIARA, 19 MARCH 2026 (OFC) — A Teaonui Tehau penalty in the sixteenth minute of stoppage time rescued a point for Tahiti United as they came from behind twice to draw 2-2 with PNG Hekari FC at the National Stadium in Honiara.
Both teams were eager for a victory, and having tasted defeat in their previous fixtures , coaches Jerry Allen and Samuel Garcia were keen to rebound with a positive result – though Tahiti United took some confidence into the match after winning the last encounter between the sides.
It was Garcia’s side who put the pressure on early in the first-half, threatening out wide through Mathis Lacan and Matéo Degrumelle whose efforts led Tahiti United to fire their first chances at goal.
Their opponents though held firm in their defensive efforts despite being on the back-foot for much of the first-half.
With Tahiti United’s pressure mounting, PNG Hekari made the few moments they had in their opponent’s final third count. Just over twenty minutes were on the clock when the breakthrough came against the run of play. Joseph Joe whipping in a wicked corner that floated over everyone, including goalkeeper Jackson Gardner and nestled in the far corner.
They were unable to hold on until the break though. Manuarii Shan levelling for Tahiti United from their own corner, guiding in a header at the near post deep into first-half stoppage time.
Both sides pushed for the winner in the second-half, with John Orobulu and Rex Naime working hard for PNG Hekari. Naime in particular was a menace for the Tahiti United defence with his pace a constant threat in behind their backline.
Tahiti United introduced a number of substitutes in the second period, including New Caledonian international Germain Haewegene to inject some energy up front – linking well with Teaonui Tehau to threaten Dave Tomare’s goal.
It was PNG Hekari however who would find what appeared to be the winner, with Rex Naime’s persistence up front paying off. The pacey forward took advantage of good work by Logan Biwa to win the ball high up the field, before Naime danced his way into the area and prodded an effort past Gardner.
Jerry Allen’s side seemed destined to secure a much-needed victory but were denied right at the death. Tehau was clipped in the box and after a VAR check, referee Calvin Berg awarded a spot-kick.
Tehau himself stepped up and confidently rifled his effort into the top corner past Tomare, to ensure a share of the spoils and what could prove to be a valuable point in Tahiti United’s top four hopes.
PNG Hekari FC: 2 (Joseph JOE 22′, Rex NAIME 86′)
Tahiti United FC: 2 (Manuarii SHAN 45+5′, Teaonui TEHAU (P) 90+16′)
HT: 1-1…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Julian Savea back, Joel Lam debuts, Augustine Pulu suspended: Moana Pasifika face big week
WELLINGTON, 19 MARCH 2026 (PMN) — Moana Pasifika have a busy week ahead, with veteran Julian Savea back in the side and rising star Joel Lam earning his first start.
But they will also be without halfback Augustine Pulu following a three-week suspension for a dangerous tackle.
Savea will play his first match of the 2026 season when Moana Pasifika host the Crusaders on Saturday night at North Harbour Stadium.
The return of the 35-year-old former All Black gives the side an experienced boost in the backline.
Lam, 23, a standout in last week’s 43-7 thumping by the Blues, earns his first start at halfback.
In 44 minutes of playing time last week, Lam didn’t miss a single tackle and helped Moana Pasifika’s attack come alive.
Lam has strong connections with the Crusaders, where he made his Super Rugby Pacific debut in 2023.
The loose forwards department has been reshuffled too, with Niko Jones earning his first start of the season at openside flanker.
Jones, who made his Manu Sāmoa debut last year against Scotland, is known for his ferocious ball-carrying and strong work ethic.
But Moana Pasifika will be without Pulu after a high tackle on Blues’ Sam Nock in the 17th minute of last weekend’s match at Eden Park.
Pulu, a former All Black, was initially shown a yellow card, which was later upgraded to red.
Coach Tana Umaga reflected on the impact of Pulu’s sending-off after the match.
“That did harm us. It obviously harmed Sam Nock, which isn’t ideal. He’s a good, young man,” he said.
“To play half an hour with 14 players… but the funny thing is, when we did have 14 men, we seemed to have a lot more urgency and showed what we can do. When we were 15, it wasn’t the same.”
The judiciary set a six-week suspension for Pulu’s direct contact with a swinging arm to the head but applied a full 50 per cent reduction due to his guilty plea, prior record, and remorse, bringing the ban to three weeks.
The suspension could drop to two weeks if Pulu completes World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme. Pulu will also miss Moana Pasifika’s upcoming matches against the Highlanders (27 March) and Chiefs (11 April).
Despite these challenges, Moana Pasifika remain motivated to make their first home match of the season count.
Savea will start at second five-eighths, Lam at halfback, and Tevita Latu shifts to right wing. Chris Apoua, Jackson Garden-Bachop, and Siaosi Nginingini return to the bench.
“We’ve got to make sure that we don’t just talk about it, but we’re actually living what we talk about,” Umaga said in a statement. “We’re excited about being home and that’s a huge motivation for us.”
Moana Pasifika now face a test of depth, resilience, and talent as they look to bounce back from last week’s defeat and balance the return of key players with the absence of Pulu.
The Moana Pasifika vs Crusaders match on Saturday 21 March at North Harbour Stadium. Kickoff at 7.05pm.
TEAMS
Moana Pasifika (1-15): Tito Tuipulotu, Millennium Sanerivi, Atu Moli, Tom Savage, Allan Craig, Miracle Faiilagi (c), Niko Jones, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa, Joel Lam, Patrick Pellegrini, Glen Vaihu, Julian Savea, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Tevita Latu, William Havili
Replacements: Mamoru Harada, Abraham Pole, Chris Apoua, Veikoso Poloniati, Dominic Ropeti, Siaosi Nginingini, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Tevita Ofa
Crusaders (1-15): Finlay Brewis, George Bell, Fletcher Newell, Tahlor Cahill, Jamie Hannah, Ethan Blackadder, Johnny Lee, Christian Lio-Willie, Noah Hotham, Cooper Grant, Sevu Reece, Dallas McLeod, Braydon Ennor, Chay Fihaki, Will Jordan (c)
Replacements: Manumaua Leitu, George Bower, Seb Calder, Antonio Shalfoon, Xavier Saifoloi, Kyle Preston, Leciester Fainga’anuku, Kurtis Macdonald
Referee: Angus Mabey. Assistant Referees: Paul Williams, Mike Winter. TMO: Aaron Paterson…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJILIVE PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Minimal changes to Drua for Reds clash
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FIJILIVE) — Swire Shipping Fijian Drua Head Coach Glen Jackson has decided to stick with what works naming a mostly unchanged line-up to face the Queensland Reds in Lautoka.
The Drua have retained a majority of last week’s line-up with only the return of hooker Zuriel Togiatama to the starting 23 with Sairusi Ravudi returning to the bench.
Kitione Salawa also returns to the number seven jersey with Motikai Murray to come off the bench.
Also returning on the bench is Inia Tabuavou as outside back cover.
The Drua have once more opted for a 6-2 split looking to challenge the Reds upfront.
The match kicks off on Saturday at 3.35pm at Churchill Park.
Fijian Drua: Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama, Mesake Doge, Mesake Vocevoce, Isoa Nasilasila, Etonia Waqa, Kitione Salawa, Elia Canakaivata, Frank Lomani (c), Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Ponipate Loganimasi, Isikeli Rabitu, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Joji Nasova, Iliasia Droasese.
Reserves: Sairusi Ravudi, Peni Ravai, Samuela Tawake, Vilive Miramira, Isoa Tuwai, Motikiai Murray, Issak Fines-Leleiwasa, Inia Tabuavou…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Volavola to make Reds debut off the bench against Drua
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Former Fiji Water Flying Fijians flyhalf, Ben Volavola is set to make his Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific debut for the Reds this weekend when they take on the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua in round 6 of the competition.
It will be a homecoming for the 34-year-old, who will be running out infront of his fellow Fijians for the first time in a long time since playing for the Flying Fijians.
Volavola has been named to start off the bench and could well be making his debut in the second half.
Meanwhile, the Reds will be without Wallabies trio Carter Gordon, Fraser McReight and Zane Nonggorr for this weekend’s clash, and coach Les Kiss says the decision is part of planned “regeneration weeks” for players.
Fullback Jock Campbell is set to make his 100th appearance for the Reds in a major milestone match.
Kiss expects a tough test in Lautoka, warning the Drua are dangerous at home and coming off strong back-to-back wins.
The Reds will take on the Drua at 3.35pm this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, and you can watch the live coverage of the match on FBC Sports HD, on the Walesi set-top box…. PACNEWS
VAN – CRICKET: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup EAP Qualifier squad announced
PORT VILA, 19 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Vanuatu has announced a promising squad of young female cricketers set to represent the nation at the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia Pacific (EAP) Qualifier in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, next month.
Leading the 14-player squad is captain Susan Stephen, alongside Zhuren Ata Anna Griffin, Nesline Karu, Sharron Kenni, Rineth Lengsau, Augustine Mansale, Rosalinda Mansale, Maya Matautaava, Jaime Molisa, Claudia Nguyen, Jude Poilapa, Maselin Thompson and Juliette Wenitong.
Marking a historic step forward for women’s cricket in the country, the selection signals a major milestone, as Vanuatu qualifies directly for the regional event for the first time.
The squad was finalised following strong performances in domestic development pathways, including the Interchange Vanuatu Cricket Academy and the newly introduced Junior Girls Cricket Competition.
The competition has played a key role in identifying and nurturing emerging talent across Port Vila, offering young players a clear route into national selection.
The qualifier tournament presents an opportunity for the team to compete against some of the strongest sides in the region, with a coveted place at the ICC Under-19 Women’s T20 World Cup on the line.
High Performance Manager and National Head Coach of the Vanuatu Cricket Association (VCA), Chris Laffan, praised the group’s dedication and development, describing the selection as a significant moment for the sport.
“This is a really exciting moment for our female cricket programme. To now be eligible to compete in this event for the first time shows the progress being made in women’s cricket in Vanuatu,” Laffan said.
“The girls have come through our junior programmes and have put in the work over a sustained period. Now they have the chance to test themselves against some very strong opposition in the region.”
The upcoming qualifier will feature teams from Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Fiji and Indonesia, with all sides competing for a single spot at the World Cup.
Vanuatu is set to open its campaign against Samoa on 8 April, followed by matches against Papua New Guinea on 9 April, Fiji on 11 April and Indonesia on 13 April, in what is expected to be a challenging but exciting tournament for the young squad…. PACNEWS
PNG – CRICKET: NBC PNG PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Siale’s squad named for World Cup Qualifiers
PORT MORESBY, 19 MARCH 2026 (NBC PNG) — Cricket Papua New Guinea [CPNG] has announced the final 14-player PNG U19 Siale’s squad to compete in the upcoming ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup East Asia-Pacific [EAP] Qualifier.
The regional tournament, scheduled for 24–29 April 2026, will see Papua New Guinea host Indonesia, Japan, and Vanuatu at Amini Park.
The teams will be vying for a single qualifying spot at the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup.
The squad was finalised following months of preparation, including intensive training camps and talent identification programmes that began with national trials in November, 2025.
Chairman of the Cricket PNG National Selectors Panel, Hudson Leka said the selection process was both demanding and rewarding.
“The talent gathered from our trials back in November was raw, but it was abundant,” Leka said. “Over the last few months, these young women have committed to extensive physical and mental training… we have watched them grow from raw but passionate prospects into a confident and cohesive unit”.
The selection panel confirmed a primary squad of 14 players, supported by two reserves.
Head Coach Jason Kila said the strong commitment shown by the team during their preparations, saying that the players are proud to represent their country on home soil.
Cricket PNG Board Chairman Michael Harrison acknowledged the efforts of the high-performance team and the selectors in assembling the talent. He urged the local community to turn out in force to support the young side.
“As they take the field at Amini Park, they will proudly carry the hopes of the nation with them, and we encourage all Papua New Guineans to get behind our young Siale’s,” Harrison said.
The event offers a rare opportunity for local fans to witness international women’s cricket as PNG aims to secure its place on the global stage.
PNG U19 Siale’s Squad: Ravu Pal, Rollie Mahuru, Krystaleigh Alu, Konio Gavera, Nina Kila, Warimo Ewana, Edit Ao, Konio E Oala, Molong Hobart, Georgina Tom, Loa Ranu, Abigail Leka, Mea Loa, Reia Baeau.
Reserves: Hanenamo Rawali and Geua Vai…. PACNEWS
COOKS – VOLLEYBALL: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Volleyball fundraiser backs Cook Islands teams ahead of international event
RAROTONGA, 19 MARCH 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — A 32km runathon held over the weekend has helped raise funds to support the Cook Islands men’s beach volleyball teams ahead of the Futures International Beach Volleyball Tournament, set to begin next week in Rarotonga.
Organised by Cook Islands Volleyball Federation, the fundraiser will assist the Pro Futures National Men’s Beach Volleyball teams as they prepare for the competition which starts on Tuesday, 24 March, in Nikao.
The Futures Rarotonga tournament is a key stop on the 2026 FIVB Beach Pro Tour and will run from 24–27 March, and forms part of a record-breaking 2026 season featuring 29 Futures tournaments worldwide.
Thirty six teams from around the world have confirmed their participation including four teams representing the Cook Islands.
With two players per team, a total of 72 athletes will compete, along with coaches and support staff travelling with several overseas squads.
Volleyball Cook Islands president Robert Graham said this year’s tournament features one of the largest fields of competitors the event has seen.
Teams are travelling from Hungary, Germany, the Czech Republic, Japan, the United States, Samoa and Norway, along with 10 teams from Australia and two from New Zealand.
Many of the visiting athletes compete regularly on the international beach volleyball circuit.
Graham said the tournament is an important opportunity for Cook Islands players to gain valuable international ranking points.
“I’m hoping our boys will do well and move into the second round of the competition,” he said.
“Playing in this tournament gives them ranking points from the international federation, which will help their regional and international rankings. That will be important when they head to the South Pacific Games next year.”
Tournament matches are expected to run daily from around 9am through to the evening.
In preparation for the event, an international beach volleyball referee from Australia will conduct a training course this week to help certify local officials.
The referee training programme, running from 21–23 March, will allow participants to qualify as Oceania Beach Volleyball referees.
Officials from the outer islands of Aitutaki, Mangaia and Atiu will travel to Rarotonga to take part.
Graham acknowledged the support of Air Rarotonga for assisting with travel arrangements for the referees attending the course.
The programme will begin with three days of theory training before participants gain practical experience during the tournament, assisting with match officiating, scoring and line judging.
The Cook Islands already has two qualified Oceania referees — Tira Marsters and Alone Aumaro — who will serve as first referees during the tournament.
Additional certified referees will also travel from Guam and Australia to assist with officiating duties.
Meanwhile, Volleyball Cook Islands also held its annual general meeting over the weekend, reflecting on a successful 2025 season and outlining plans for the year ahead.
The organisation’s executive team includes Robert Graham (president), Kaitini Herman-Estall (vice president), Tiare Karaponga (secretary general), Jasmin Teulilo (treasurer), Jackie Rongo (development coordinator), Tira Marsters (referees coordinator), Tehapai Marsters (beach commissioner) and newly elected events coordinator Mata Tuatai.
Graham also acknowledged the support of volunteers, sponsors and the wider community who contributed to the runathon fundraiser, including performances by Steven Hiro and his drummers. He extended thanks to supporters including Maritime Cook Islands, Vodafone Cook Islands and The Edgewater Resort & Spa, as well as donors and volunteers who helped make the event possible…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALL PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Ford Football Ferns Squad Named for FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 Oceania Qualifiers Finals in New Zealand
WELLINGTON, 19 MARCH 2026 (NEW ZEALAND FOOTBALL) — The Ford Football Ferns squad has been named for the Oceania Qualifiers finals, set to be played in Aotearoa New Zealand, the qualifying tournament for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027.
Michael Mayne’s side will first face Fiji in the semi-finals on Sunday 12 April at FMG Stadium Waikato in Kirikiriroa Hamilton (KO 7pm).
The winner of that game will then take on the winner of Papua New Guinea v American Samoa on Wednesday 15 April at North Harbour Stadium in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland (KO 7pm), with the victorious side booking their ticket to the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.
The squad sees Ferns’ regulars Ally Green, Jacqui Hand, Gabi Rennie, and Kate Taylor, added to the group who won all three Oceania Qualifiers games in the Solomon Islands earlier this month without conceding a goal.
The full squad is:
Liz ANTON (27 caps/0 goals) Canberra United, Australia
Hannah BLAKE (10/3) Durham FC, England
Kelli BROWN (11/4) Newcastle Jets, Australia
Claudia BUNGE (40/1) Melbourne Victory, Australia
Milly CLEGG (23/4) Vittsjö GIK, Sweden
Victoria ESSON (32/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
Michaela FOSTER (33/1) Durham FC, England
Ally GREEN (19/2) FC Copenhagen, Denmark
Maya HAHN (8/1) FC Viktoria Berlin, Germany
Jacqui HAND (37/9) FC Basel, Switzerland
Deven JACKSON (8/1) Melbourne City FC, Australia
Grace JALE (37/10) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
Katie KITCHING (26/7) Sunderland AFC, England
Charlotte LANCASTER (3/0) Newcastle Jets, Australia
Meikayla MOORE (77/4) Calgary Wild, Canada
Emma PIJNENBURG (11/0) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
Gabi RENNIE (45/2) Eskilstuna United DFF, Sweden
Indiah-Paige RILEY (37/9) Crystal Palace, England
Alina SANTOS (2/0) University of Denver, USA
Rebekah STOTT (110/4) Melbourne City, Australia
Kate TAYLOR (30/2) Dijon FCO, France
Pia VLOK (3/1) Wellington Phoenix, New Zealand
Grace WISNEWSKI (7/0) FC Nordsjælland, Denmark
Ford Football Ferns head coach Michael Mayne said:
“These are really important games for us to achieve the first of our goals in our campaign plan, qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in Brazil.
“Because of these games coming so quickly after the group stage we have made the decision to retain the vast majority of that squad so we have real consistency and can hit the ground running once the players are back home.
“The tournament in the Solomon Islands was a great start to the year, and while the scores reflected the difference in quality we have over those OFC nations, what was pleasing was the way in which we stayed connected to what we wanted to get from the fixtures in the way we played and approached those matches very professionally as a group.
“I am extremely pleased with how this team is working on and off the pitch right now and how they are for looking for ways to drive each other in every opportunity we get together.
“Now we get to continue that work on home soil and we want to put on an entertaining match against Fiji on April 12 in Kirikiriroa/Hamilton.
“The reality is, we have not played in New Zealand in over a year so being back in Aotearoa is a real privilege and the prospect of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027 in front of our home fans and families is very special and not something we get to do very often.
“The players are obviously extremely motivated to come back, connect with our people and put on a some good performances that book our ticket to Brazil in front of our home supporters.”…. PACNEWS
PAC – NETBALL: NETBALL.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Pacific federations unite through netball
CANBERRA, 19 MARCH 2026 (NETBALL.COM.AU) — Netball Australia welcomed leaders from Netball Fiji, Netball PNG, Netball Samoa, and Tonga Netball Association to Melbourne from 10-13 March 2026 for the Strategic Leadership Workshop.
Now in its fourth edition, the workshop reflects the ongoing partnership between Netball Australia and Pacific Netball Federations in a shared commitment to strengthening netball across the region.
The workshop forms part of Netball’s Ocean of Power, a programme focused on the development and empowerment of women in netball across the Pacific, supported by the Australian Government through the Pacific Women’s Sports Administration Programme.
Collaborating To Succeed
Board members, CEOs, and staff from each Pacific federation came together for four days of learning and discussion, with participants representing all areas of their organisations, from community development and high performance to governance, finance and strategy.
Sessions were delivered by expert facilitators from across Australia and the Pacific, covering topics such as project planning, leadership practices, governance and financial management, high performance development, and media and communications.
CEO of Netball PNG Lynette Maha highlighted the value of the workshop.
“Netball Australia provides the opportunity to receive first-hand information and hear from experts in their various fields which helps build confidence for staff,” she explained.
CEO of Tonga Netball Association and President of Oceania Netball Federation Salote Sisifa echoed Maha’s sentiment.
“The Strategic Leadership Workshop is an important platform for all partners to share knowledge, common challenges, and solutions which we can take away and tailor to the context of our countries,” she said.
“Netball Australia have been great in continuing this initiative. It keeps us informed and on the same page. This brings us closer not just as colleagues but reaffirms the netball family of Oceania working and learning alongside one another.”
Celebrating Progress Across The Pacific
The four-day workshop commenced with an opportunity for each federation to reflect on achievements and challenges from the past year.
Major milestones included international tournaments being hosted by Fiji and Tonga, ongoing umpire education and accreditation across federations, as well as increased collaboration between Netball Australia and Pacific federations to support the growth of netball.
Programme Manager at Netball Samoa Tusi Faasootau-Ale reflected on the value of working together across the region.
“The biggest success is being able to share this with our sister countries,” she said.
“The only way is for us to move forward together.”
Sustainability & Development
A key focus of the Strategic Leadership Workshop was ensuring Pacific Netball Federations are well equipped to build sustainable futures for the sport.
To support this, participants took part in sessions exploring financial sustainability, project management, and workforce development.
Marlene Dutta, an experienced leader in business development across the Pacific, led discussions on financial capability, focusing on strategies to increase revenue and build partnerships, so federations can continue to grow and deliver impactful programmes within their communities.
Drawing on her experience working across the region, she was able to provide insights that resonated with the realities faced by Pacific federations.
“I consider myself first and foremost a Pacific Islander, born and raised in Fiji. I’m not an expert on any of your countries, but I do understand something of your countries,” she said.
Ensuring speakers understood the unique challenges faced across Pacific nations was a key priority for the workshop, particularly when exploring ways to build sustainable futures for the federations. CEO of Netball Samoa Justine Samu highlighted this impact.
“Marlene Dutta’s session not only cemented Netball Samoa were on the right track, but also made me reframe my perspective on my approach to sponsors – this was highly valuable and especially coming from someone who is based in the Pacific and understands our context,” she said.
Safeguarding & Inclusion
Keeping netball a safe and empowering space for girls and women, maintaining safeguarding and inclusion practices are a crucial part of federation leadership.
Speakers Tahina Booth and Keesha Booth from Grass Skirt Project guided participants through conversations around safeguarding and community engagement.
To guide the conversation, Keesha drew upon Talanoa guidelines including respect, listening deeply, speaking with humility, and cultural safety.
The session reinforced how to integrate safeguarding policy into practice on the ground directly with communities while maintaining culture.
“If you can get people to talk about really difficult taboo topics and use sport as that leverage point, then you can make huge movements socially,” Keesha said.
“The role of sports in the Pacific is incredibly impactful so if any sports institutions lead it and integrate safeguarding into their day-to-day operations it has a huge impact in how it plays out in the community.”
Faasootau-Ale emphasised the significance of this workshop in broadening responsibility across all areas of the netball ecosystem with regards to safeguarding.
“It takes a village, if you see every child as someone part of your family. That’s what I’ve learned sitting here, to honour and normalise safeguarding in everyday conversation and within our organisations.”
Legacy & Impact
Leaders from Australia supported Pacific Netball Federations by sharing their expertise to advance growth and strategic planning.
Netball Australia’s Executive General Manager of Netball Megan Simpson delivered a session drawing on more than 20 years of experience across grassroots and high-performance netball.
Simpson, also a former Head Coach of the Fiji Pearls, discussed the importance of consistency and strong culture in building successful national programmes.
Netball Australia Workforce Development Manager Kim Bailey also shared insights on providing pathways for coaches and umpires, including education and training opportunities.
Amy Thorp, General Manager Legal and Integrity at Netball Australia led federations on policy development processes to strengthen governance, risk management and regulatory frameworks.
Continuing the focus on learning and future opportunities, participants also heard from Netball World Cup 2027 Chief Executive Officer Mark Falvo and Legacy Lead Alana Fechner, who shared insights into the upcoming international tournament and explored ways federations could become involved in the event.
This was followed by a session led by ABC International Project Manager Sally Eeles on media and communications, supporting federations to showcase their stories and strengthen netball’s profile in the Pacific.
Looking Ahead
Netball Australia Head of Market Development Sallee Caldwell said the workshop plays an important role in continuing to strengthen netball across the Pacific.
“The Strategic Leadership Workshop is an opportunity for Pacific Netball Federations to connect and share ideas, work through challenges they may be facing, while also celebrating each federation’s successes,” she said.
“We hope participants walk away with some additional tools and learnings to continue delivering netball in their countries as the sport continues to grow across the region.”
As Netball Australia prepares to host the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney and continues its pursuit of Olympic inclusion, the organisation is committed to strengthening relationships with Pacific Netball Federations.
Through Netball’s Ocean of Power, Netball Australia will continue work alongside Pacific federations to build organisational capacity and strengthen people-to-people connections uniting Australian and Pacific netball communities…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI GOVT PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 19 Mar 2026
Fiji’s Prime Minister Rabuka wishes Fijiana 15s Team well
SUVA, 19 MARCH 2026 (FIJI GOVT) — The Fijiana Rugby 15’s team, led by Fiji Rugby Union Chief Executive Officer Koli Sewabu, this afternoon presented their iTatau to the Prime Minister Sititveni Rabuka and Minister responsible for Youth and Sports, at the Valelevu Youth Training Center in Nasinu.
In addressing the team, Prime Minister Rabuka said the nation is rallying behind them and is looking forward to watching their games.
“Every time you run in, give it your all. We are all watching and here to support you, take those tackles with you. If you feel pain, we will also feel the pain,” he said.
He urged the team not to be discouraged by negative comments but to go and do what they have set out to do and most of all to believe in themselves.
PM Rabuka told the Fijiana side that he was honoured to visit them before they start their very important journey, carrying with them the hopes of 920,800 people—the population of Fiji.
He emphasised that everyone is cheering for and praying for them, as they are the ones representing the country in the field.
“Do not panic prepare well, take to heart what your coaches have taught you and execute it. Secondly is to listen to the team management.”
“I pray that you will be successful and may the Good Lord’s blessing follow you where you are going,” he added.
He shared his own story of representing Fiji in sports, beginning in 1970 and his last game in 1977, reminding the girls of how important their roles are and encouraging them to be good ambassadors both on and off the field.
Prime Minister Rabuka also thanked the management of FRU for their sound leadership and for giving the women of Fiji an avenue to showcase their talent in rugby.
“Thanks to the support of the Ministry for keeping the machinery going, enabling you to train when you can and to run when you can.”
The Fijiana 15s team will take on the Wallaroos for their first Test Match in Canberra on the 27th of this month…. PACNEWS