In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Reilly to lead First Nations Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV
2. RUGBY — ‘If we’re serious about it’: Palu hoping Tongan return can be more than one-off
3. RUGBY — All Blacks make three changes for third test
4. RUGBY — Naisarani comes home to Drua
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG’s Young pursuit on hold after salary-cap drama
6. RUGBY — Hard work building Flying Fijians’ connection
7. BOXING — Lloyds Panguna Sponsors Rising Bougainville Professional Boxer
8. CRICKET — Garamuts name squad for ICC U19 EAP qualifier
9. FOOTBALL — A new chapter for football in Kiribati begins with OFC Visit
10. FOOTBALL — Tonga Football Association (TFA) continues journey of learning and development with OFC certificate programme
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Reilly to lead First Nations Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV
CANBERRA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AUU) — ACT Brumbies’ new recruit Triston Reilly has been named skipper ahead of First Nations Pasifika’s clash against Tonga President’s XV on Friday.
Reilly, who moved from the NSW Waratahs, will line up in the midfield as the teams battle for the inaugural Kaume’a Ofi Trophy.
He is one of three players who featured in last year’s narrow loss to the British & Irish Lions, joined by fellow centre Jarrah McLeod and prop Lington Ieli.
McLeod starts at inside centre, continuing his stellar season that included an Australian Sevens and Super Rugby Pacific debut.
As for Ieli, he is coming off featuring for Australia A in 2025 against Japan XV, starting in the front-row.
He is joined by Australia U20 hooker John Grenfell and former Northland and Hawke’s Bay prop Remsy Lemisio.
Brumbies duo Tavita Loughland and Judah Saumaisue have also been named, fresh off selection in their Super Rugby Aus squad.
The ACT connection continues in the halves with Moses Sorovi and Chace Oates named, whilst Oates’ brother BJ is set to line up at fullback.
Sevens squad member Gage Philips adds speed on the wing, whilst former Australian Schoolboys fullback Angus Tagicakibau rounds out the backline.
NSW Waratahs hooker Oniti Finau headlines the bench alongside ex-Brumbies front-rower Fred Kailea and Reds young gun Teina Graham.
Former Waratahs and Wallabies great Wycliff Palu will coach the side, excited about the ‘special’ opportunity.
“This is a really special group of players, and we’ve got a powerful mix of First Nations, Pasifika and Māori heritage, experience and talent within this team,” Palu said.
“What makes it even more meaningful is the opportunity to bring those cultures together here in Tonga and represent our communities on the international stage. We’ve received an incredible welcome since arriving, and the connection we’ve felt with the people, the schools and the rugby community has been really powerful.
“On Friday, we want to take that energy onto the field, play with pride and passion, and put in a performance that reflects the strength of this group and the significance of the occasion.”
Supported by the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative and in close collaboration between Tonga Rugby Union and Rugby Australia, the Kaume’a Ofi Trophy — meaning “Close Friends” in Tongan — was established to celebrate the enduring relationship between Tonga and Australia and the role rugby can play in connecting communities.
First Nations & Pasifika XV team list v Tonga President’s XV
Friday 4 September at 12.00pm AEST/3.00pm local.
1. Lington Ieli (Fijian)
2. John Grenfell (First Nations/Aboriginal)
3. Remsy Lemisio (Samoan)
4. Tavita Loughland (Samoan)
5. Sau Vaihu (Tongan)
6. Tau Tuisamoa (Samoan)
7. Davea Teoteo (Tongan/Samoan)
8. Judah Saumaisue (Fijian)
9. Moses Sorovi (Torres Strait Islands/Fijian)
10. Chace Oates (First Nations/Aboriginal)
11. Gage Phillips (First Nations/Aboriginal)
12. Jarrah McLeod (First Nations/Aboriginal)
13. Triston Reilly (c) (First Nations/Aboriginal)
14. Angus Tagicakibau (Fijian)
15. BJ Oates (First Nations/Aboriginal)
Substitutes
16. Oniti Finau (Tongan)
17. Berakah Tuifaasisina (Samoan)
18. Fred Kaihea (Tongan/Samoan)
19. Malakai Taulani (Tongan)
20. Taufa Kinikini (Tongan)
21. Teina Graham (Māori)
22. Tamarangi Tunui (Māori)
23. Garlen Peace (First Nations/Aboriginal/Fijian)
24. Denzel Veikune (Tongan)EndFragment…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
‘If we’re serious about it’: Palu hoping Tongan return can be more than one-off
CANBERRA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — Wallabies great Wycliff Palu is cherishing a Tonga return he warns needs to be more than a one-off “promotion” as rugby fights for a foothold in the Pacific.
Three-time World Cup player Palu, who defied a long history of injuries to accrue 58 Test caps, will coach First Nations and Pasifika against Tonga President’s XV in Nuku’alofa on Friday.
Competing for the inaugural Kaume’a Ofi Trophy – meaning “Close Friends” in Tongan – the fixture will be streamed on Stan Sport and is the latest effort to foster rugby in the Pacific and strengthen the connections between the two countries.
Last year a First Nations and Pasifika team, coached by Toutai Kefu and featuring Kurtley Beale and Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, scared the British and Irish Lions in a 24-19 arm wrestle.
Reassembled with the support of the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports initiative, the timely Tongan visit follows the demise of Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby and follows the government’s $600 million (US$432 million) investment in rugby league in the region.
In addition to a major investment in the PNG Chiefs, set to launch in the NRL in 2028, the 10-year funding package includes $250 million (US$179.99 million) to grow the sport in Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
Palu, now 44, has spent the last decade playing and coaching in Japan.
Now, linked to a return under Michael Cheika at the NSW Waratahs, is keen to remind children of the Pacific that rugby has always been their game.
“I never played in Tonga and have only been here maybe four times, but to have that Tongan heritage, it’s cool to come back after so long and instantly feel that connection,” he said.
“This game … it’s important it’s not a one-off, not just a promotion. If we’re serious about it, it’s got to be consistent.”
There are several layers of efforts to ensure that’s the case, with part of Rugby Australia’s $90 million (US$64.79 million) World Cup government injection to be spent on grassroots Pacific competitions.
And there is a separate $150 million (US$107.99 million) proposal to the federal government, led by the prime ministers of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga, for two new Pacific sides to join the four Super Rugby Australian franchises in their fledgling pre-season tournament.
The battling Moana Pasifika only played twice in Tonga and Samoa in their five Super seasons, having remained off the radar in New Zealand and unable to attract sponsors or a fan base once the majority owners took over from World Rugby in 2024.
Rugby Australia are looking to the Fijian Drua model as the benchmark, given their winning record on home soil and incredible support base after graduating from the second-tier National Rugby Championship.
ANZ bank estimates the Drua, indirectly through tourism but also merchandise, transport, retail and advertising, contributed $73 million (US$5.25 million) to the country’s gross domestic product last season.
Palu can see the passion in Tonga too, but knows rugby league, after Jason Taumalolo’s iconic defection to lead the Mata Ma’a Tonga, is winning hearts and minds.
“The school kids, they go crazy when you just give them a ball and it’ll be so cool if there was a consistent presence,” he said.
“Their league stars went and played (for Tonga) and it inspired the kids.
“For rugby to grow it can’t be Tongan kids playing in New Zealand or Australia. It has to be Tongans playing for Tonga, in Tonga.
“They don’t have to be huge stars anywhere else, but in Tonga they would be massive and that would make a difference.”
Tristan Reilly, who scored against the Lions last year, will captain the side while exciting playmaker Chace Oates, a Toowoomba Grammar graduate now in Canberra, will wear the No.10 with brother BJ at fullback…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
All Blacks make three changes for third test
SUVA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The All Blacks have made three changes to their starting forward pack for their third Test against the Springboks in Soweto on Sunday.
Asafo Aumua replaces Codie Taylor at hooker, with Samisoni Taukei’aho coming onto the bench.
Sam Darry has been promoted into the starting second row alongside Tupou Vaa’i, who will mark his 50th All Blacks Test.
Peter Lakai also comes into the starting loose forward trio, joining Luke Jacobson and captain Ardie Savea.
Wallace Sititi returns to the matchday 23 at number 20.
There is no Ethan de Groot or Josh Lord, with both players given another week to recover after injuries sustained in the opening Test.
The backline remains unchanged.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson says there is everything to play for.
The All Blacks will take on the Springboks at 3.10am this Sunday…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Naisarani comes home to Drua
SUVA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua has pulled off a major signing ahead of the 2027 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, securing the services of former Wallabies No. 8 Isi Naisarani.
For Naisarani, the move is more than a new chapter in his professional career — it is a homecoming.
Born in Fiji and raised in Naqali, Naitasiri, with maternal links to Gusuisavu, Naisarani left the country as a young player in pursuit of opportunities overseas.
Now, the former Ratu Kadavulevu School student is set to return home and play professional rugby in front of family, friends and the Drua Nation.
The powerful backrower brings more than a decade of experience at the highest level, having played Super Rugby for the Western Force, ACT Brumbies and Melbourne Rebels, before also continuing his career in Japan.
Naisarani first made his name in Australia with Souths in Brisbane before earning selection for Brisbane City in the 2016 National Rugby Championship.
His breakthrough season saw him score five tries in seven matches, with his powerful ball-carrying quickly attracting the attention of Super Rugby clubs.
He joined the Western Force in 2017 and made his Super Rugby debut against the Waratahs in Sydney.
He went on to play 15 matches in his rookie season and became the first player to win the Nathan Sharpe Medal as the Force’s Player of the Year in his debut professional campaign.
That same year, Naisarani was awarded the RUPA Medal for Excellence after being voted the best Australian Super Rugby player of the year by his peers — becoming the first debut-season player to claim the award.
His performances earned him a move to the ACT Brumbies in 2018 before joining the Melbourne Rebels the following year, where he established himself as one of the competition’s premier No. 8s.
After later returning to the Western Force in 2023, Naisarani finished his 2026 campaign in outstanding form with Shute Shield side Eastern Suburbs, earning selection in the Code Sports Shute Shield Team of the Year at No. 8 and finishing runner-up for the Ken Catchpole Medal with 20 points.
His career also reached the international stage in 2019 when he made his Wallabies debut against South Africa in Johannesburg, becoming Wallaby No. 926.
He was subsequently selected for Australia’s 2019 Rugby World Cup squad, starting against Fiji in their opening pool match and featuring in the quarter-final against England.
Now, after years of playing abroad, Naisarani is returning to where it all began.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Fijian Drua team for the 2027 season. My family and I can’t wait to meet and connect with all the fans. Let’s make 2027 a good one. Toso Drua Toso!”
Drua head coach Brad Mooar believes Naisarani’s experience, power and hunger will add another dimension to the side.
“Isi joining the Drua Vuvale is a very exciting signing for us. A dynamic, powerful and skilful player, he will add a huge amount to our game in attack and defence,” Mooar said.
Mooar says Naisarani is enjoying his rugby and life and remains hungry to improve — qualities he believes will make him an outstanding addition to the Drua.
The signing gives the Drua an experienced campaigner with more than 65 Super Rugby appearances, international experience and a proven record as a dominant ball carrier.
For Naisarani, however, the biggest attraction may simply be the chance to finally wear the Drua jersey on home soil…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
PNG’s Young pursuit on hold after salary-cap drama
CANBERRA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — PNG will hold off pursuing Hudson Young after they were told their proposed offer for the Canberra star would not meet market value.
Just two days after Young confirmed he was attracted to the prospect of joining the Chiefs’ star-studded roster, the potential move has hit a serious sticking point.
It is understood the Chiefs were looking to offer Young about $900,000 (US$648,110) a season, if the NSW State of Origin star joined the NRL’s 19th franchise for 2028.
That figure is close to $200,000 (US$144,024) shy of the monster three-year deal worth $1.1 million (US$792,054) a season believed to have been pitched by the Raiders to keep the back-rower.
Young had planned to tour PNG in coming weeks once off crutches following his Achilles rupture, while seriously contemplating becoming the Chiefs’ eighth signing.
But ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys told club bosses on Wednesday that PNG would definitely need to meet market value on player signings.
The NRL has several tools to measure market value, including benchmarking of the highest-paid players in each position and salaries of similar players.
The value of other offers could also be taken into account, while the NRL traditionally will allow players to be paid less than that if there are valid reasons.
Ultimately, it means the Chiefs will have to go very close to matching Canberra’s mega offer.
Until Wednesday, the Chiefs had believed an offer of $900,000 (US$648,110) would have met market value for Young.
AAP understands they were willing to up their offer to $950,000 (US$684,006) a year, but that is also not expected to be enough.
With that in mind, Chiefs officials have decided to wait until at least 1 November to make a call on Young, when he becomes a free agent.
PNG bosses are also mindful that they have signed seven players, and need to be careful in their evaluation of potential recruits with 18 months until they actually play.
Clubs have grown concerned in recent months about the Chiefs’ signing spree, given the tax-free incentives on offer for players who join the club.
Penrith coach Ivan Cleary claimed last month it was near impossible to compete with the Chiefs on the open market, if a player decided they were happy to move there.
What the NRL’s move means for the rest of PNG’s signings remains to be seen, and if clubs desperate for a big name are able to drastically impact the market.
Penrith star Nathan Cleary is among a host of big names off contract next year and able to talk with rivals from November 1, and he could attract deals as high as $2 million (US$1.44 million).
Speaking this week, Young had suggested he would only leave Canberra for the Chiefs in 2028.
“I have no interest in playing for another NRL club,” Young said.
“Sticky (coach Ricky Stuart) and I have spoken about that. It’s more the opportunity of the PNG thing.
“My mindset is pretty open. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I just want to make sure I am comfortable with the decision I make.”…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Hard work building Flying Fijians’ connection
SUVA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Fiji Water Flying Fijians captain Tevita Ikanivere says the team’s tough training sessions are helping build the connection they will need ahead of their Japan tour.
The squad has spent the past few days going through demanding sessions, with strength and connection at the centre of their preparation.
Ikanivere says the intensity of the work has allowed the players to grow closer and understand their roles within the team.
He says the messaging has been consistent from management through to the forwards and backs, with everyone working towards the same goal.
“The best way to bring a team together is through hard work, and that’s what we’ve been doing through the past few days.”
With new faces also coming into the environment, Ikanivere believes the competition for places is healthy for Fiji Rugby and important for the future of the Flying Fijians.
He says the players coming through the pathway are being allowed to prove themselves, with their performances and attitude in training earning them their chance.
The focus now turns to sharpening their combinations before they head to Japan next week.
Fiji will meet Canada next Saturday at 7pm for the PNC semifinals…. PACNEWS
B/VILLE – BOXING: TVWAN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Lloyds Panguna Sponsors Rising Bougainville Professional Boxer
BUKA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (TVWAN) — Bougainvillean professional boxer Fidelis Laia has secured the backing of Lloyds Panguna Metals and Energy Limited after being dropped by the PNG Boxing Union last year. Following the setback, he became an independent fighter, forging his own path on the international boxing scene.
This partnership extends beyond financial sponsorship, with Laia set to serve as an ambassador for the Lloyds Panguna Sports Academy. Through his experience and profile, he will mentor and inspire young Bougainvilleans pursuing careers in boxing and other sporting disciplines.
As an academy ambassador, Laia will promote the values of discipline, hard work, healthy living, respect and equal opportunity for both men and women, while supporting Lloyds Panguna’s strong message against drug abuse and the harmful consumption of alcohol.
Lloyds Panguna CEO Hulala Tokome said the partnership reflected the company’s broader commitment to developing Bougainville’s people and creating opportunities for young men and women to realise their potential and dreams.
“At Lloyds Panguna, we are committed to developing our people. That means investing not only in education, training and employment pathways, but also in sporting talent and young people who have the discipline and determination to succeed. Our support for Fidelis is an investment in Bougainvillean talent. We want to give him every opportunity to reach the highest level of professional boxing and, importantly, to use his journey to inspire the next generation. Fidelis also carries an important responsibility. Young people will be watching him. Through the Sports Academy, we want him to demonstrate that success comes through discipline, hard work, making the right choices and staying away from drugs and the harmful use of alcohol,” stated Tokome.
Laia, a two-time champion boxer in his division, understands that his role extends beyond competing in the ring. As an ambassador, he will encourage young Bougainvilleans to set ambitious goals for themselves whether in sport, education, employment or business.
Laia made his professional debut earlier this year in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, against a highly regarded Vietnamese fighter Cao Quoc Viet in the 63.5kg division.
Laia is expected to compete in Surfers Paradise, Queensland, in September, where he is scheduled to face Australian boxer Jesse Travers.
“I am grateful for this opportunity and wholeheartedly thank Lloyds Panguna Metals for recognising me. It’s as though a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulder. With assured support, I can now concentrate fully on my fights. I am looking forward to creating a pathway for other upcoming Bougainvillean boxers who share the same drive and passion for boxing,” Fidelis stated.
A product of the Maikuna Boxing Club in Port Moresby, Laia’s journey has been far from easy. After being dropped by the PNG Boxing Union, he ventured out on his own as an independent boxer, taking full responsibility for funding his training, travel, and participation in international competitions. He often had to raise the necessary funds himself to accept invitations and compete overseas.
Founder & Head Coach of the Maikuna Team, Ephraim Montoru admired the resilience and persistence of Fidelis in pursuing his passion.
“What I admire most about Fidelis is his resilience. He keeps showing up, keeps learning and keeps believing in himself. His journey from Bougainville, through amateur boxing, and now into the professional ranks has taken a lot of sacrifice and commitment. As his coach and mentor, I’m proud of how far he has come. But I also believe his journey is only beginning. There is still a lot more to achieve, and I hope his story can inspire other young Bougainvilleans to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams despite the challenges,” said Montoru…. PACNEWS
PNG – CRICKET: TVWAN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Garamuts name squad for ICC U19 EAP qualifier
PORT MORESBY, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (TVWAN) — Cricket Papua New Guinea has named the 14-member PNG Garamuts U19 Men’s squad that will represent the country at the upcoming ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup East Asia Pacific, Division 2 Qualifier.
The qualifier will be held from September 8-12 in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Participating nations are PNG, Vanuatu, Samoa and Indonesia.
Garamuts 14-member squad is:
1. Vagi Vani Morea – Kempa Cricket Club (CC)
2. Jeremiah William – Pari CC
3. Puka Raho – Pari CC
4. Manase Gaba – Pari CC
5. Garminick Sabadi – Tubusereia CC
6. Stuart Thomas – Wanderers CC
7. Ware Wala – Pari CC
8. Ronnie Malara – Raukele CC
9. Loi Gima – Raukele CC
10. Timo Ray – Pari CC
11. Vahu Karuka – Konepoti CC
12. Immanuel Ravusiro – Raukele CC
13. Raio Raio – Konepoti CC
14. Tom Karoho – Pari CC
Head Coach Kila Pala led a comprehensive programme that provided all players in the expanded squad with the opportunity to showcase their skills throughout the selection process.
The depth of talent within the group made the final selection challenging, with the 14 players selected bringing a strong mix of dynamic batters and versatile bowling options across pace and spin.
“I am pleased with the 14 players selected. The expanded squad allowed everyone to showcase their skills, and that made the final selection. We have a good mix of dynamic batters and bowling options across both pace and spin, and I believe the players have the ability to represent our country strongly. This is an important opportunity for the players to gain international experience, continue developing as cricket players and make the most of the opportunity,” Kila said.
The selection represents an important opportunity for the players to gain international experience and continue their development within the Cricket PNG pathway.
The U19 Garamuts depart on Saturday, 5 September for the tournament…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
A new chapter for football in Kiribati begins with OFC Visit
TARAWA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — Football development in Kiribati has taken a significant step forward, with OFC visiting the Associate Member to deliver workshops in futsal, beach soccer, coaching and refereeing last month.
The visit brought OFC technical experts together with members of the Kiribati Islands Football Federation (KIFF), providing an opportunity to share knowledge and introduce new areas of the game to the country.
The trip marked an important moment for the future of football in Kiribati for President Eriati Reebo.
“It’s very good, because this is the first time that officials from OFC have come here and introduced futsal and beach soccer,” Reebo said.
The programme focused on providing participants with a foundation in coaching, refereeing and the rules of Futsal and Beach Soccer, with the latter offering particular potential in a country surrounded by coastline.
“Beach Soccer is really new to us, especially the rules,” Reebo said. “We thought it was just like football, but they have very different rules, and that’s interesting.
Kiribati has lots of beaches, so we can use this to develop football for young players, kids, women and girls.”
While infrastructure remains one of the federation’s biggest development priorities, Reebo said the visit had provided local coaches and referees with knowledge they could take back and share throughout their communities.
OFC Futsal and Beach Soccer Consultant Ben Hungai delivered the futsal coaching workshop, combining classroom learning with practical sessions to help local coaches develop their understanding of the game.
“The main aim of the workshop was to strengthen the knowledge and practical coaching skills of local coaches and give them tools that they can continue to use after the course,” Hungai said.
“Coaching is not only about teaching technical skills. It is also about understanding the players, creating realistic game situations, developing decision-making and helping players enjoy the game.”
Hungai said he saw strong potential for futsal to grow in Kiribati, particularly with the country’s young population and their passion for football.
“What impressed me the most was the enthusiasm and willingness of the coaches and participants to learn,” he said.
“Despite the challenges that exist, there was a strong passion for football and a genuine desire to improve. Football development in the Pacific is not only about facilities or resources. It is about people, commitment, passion and creating opportunities for young players.”
Refereeing was also a key part of the programme, with OFC Referee Instructor Hussein Mohammad working with local officials to strengthen their understanding of the Laws of the Game and match management.
“This was my first time in Kiribati and I really enjoyed this course,” Mohammad said. “It was great to be a part of history and be a part of the very first OFC visit to Kiribati.
“Kiribati had a willingness to learn. They now know what to do, they know what the rules are and now they know what to do after our course.”
Reebo said stronger referee education would play an important role in raising the level of football across the country.
“It increases their knowledge and skills and gives them more confidence in managing and officiating matches,” he said.
With new knowledge in futsal, beach soccer, coaching and refereeing, the visit has provided another foundation for KIFF as it looks towards greater opportunities in the future.
“We’re ready to compete,” Reebo said. “In less than three years, we can compete on the international and regional stage.”…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 04 Sep 2026
Tonga Football Association (TFA) continues journey of learning and development with OFC certificate programme
NUKU’ALOFA, 04 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — Team members at the Tonga Football Association (TFA) are looking to turn new knowledge into action after completing the second seminar of the OFC Football Management Certificate, with a focus on strengthening the federation’s commercial, communications and financial capabilities.
The seminar – held in Nuku’alofa – was the second of three as part of the programme, designed to strengthen the capacity of Member Associations across key areas of leadership, administration and management.
Over the three days, participants engaged with sessions covering sponsorship, marketing, communications and financial management.
The delivery of the certificate programme reinforces one of OFC’s top strategic goals of leaving a lasting legacy by developing leaders and building capability across the region.
Tonga Football Association CEO Lui Ahio praised the programme and its impact which extends beyond the office.
” This programme has proven highly useful in strengthening the skills and capacity of our staff equipping them with practical knowledge and tools to better serve football in Tonga. We highly value OFC’s continued support in building professional excellence within our federation.”
The seminars brought together team members from across the organisation, creating space for open discussion, shared learning and the exchange of ideas. TFA Chief of Football Kilifi Uele said the seminar offered valuable lessons across several areas of football management.
“The content itself is a big takeaway for me, starting from commercial, communication and finance. It’s essential for us, supporting the future of the Tonga Football Association, in terms of operation and organisation.”
Uele said the value of the programme extends beyond the sessions, with the learnings helping shape the wider organisational culture.
“It’s become an everyday part of our work. It creates the culture of Tonga Football Association. It will impact us so we can become more like a high-performance organisation. We’re looking forward to the next step and how we’re going to implement it right away.”
The practical focus of the sessions through interactive group works and discussions provided the space for the participants to reflect, acquire new knowledge insights, while exploring how these learnings could be implemented within TFA.
TFA Head of Women’s Football Sepi Vea was especially grateful for the sessions as one of the association’s leaders.
“It’s a very great experience to be able to share our thoughts and ideas and what we think and how we can grow as an organisation,” Vea said. “Especially being in a leadership role, you lead by example for your staff.”
The opportunity to share ideas with colleagues was one of the key benefits Vea found from the sessions.
“It’s a great experience to be able to share our thoughts and ideas, what we think and how we can grow as an organisation.
“From seminar one to seminar two, the topics are very relevant. I think that it’s great all staff can be part of this programme and learn from one another.”
Tonga Football Association becomes the third Member Association to complete its second stage of the certificate, with the final seminar to be delivered later this year…. PACNEWS
