PACNEWS SPORTS, Tuesday 4 August 2026

In this bulletin:

1. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Team Pacific signs off Glasgow26 with a judo medal, Silver Ferns gold as all eyes turn to 2030
2. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Tarona Taafaki earns tiny Tuvalu first-ever Games medal
3. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Glasgow Games end in style as bowlers put up brave final fight
4. COMMONWEALTH GAMES — Samoa ranked 17th among 36 nations in Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games
5. RUGBY — Emirates Match Official appointments confirmed for women’s internationals from August to October
6. RUGBY — ‘I need to fit and contribute’: New Drua head coach lays out clear vision for the future
7. RUGBY — Tamani signs with Highlanders
8. RUGBY — New Wallabies defensive coach McLeod’s direct defensive approach ahead of Japan debut
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — Tongan powerhouse announces Warriors wāhine arrival while Wahs men hit back
10. RUGBY LEAGUE — Fiji Bulikula coach search begins
11. FOOTBALL — Member Associations shape the future of Just Play through regional workshop
12. FOOTBALL — OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 | Team Profile | Tupapa Maraerenga FC
13. FOOTBALL — Small nations hold big cards as FIFA chief Infantino scrambles for support
14. VOLLEYBALL — Guam shuts out American Samoa in men’s volleyball Oceania Championships opener
15. MSG PM CUP — Vanuatu begins preparations to defend MSG PM Cup title
16. RUGBY — Death during brawl at league game in Samoa raises safety question
17. SPORTS — Fiji needs $300 million to upgrade sporting facilities – Mazey

PAC – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Team Pacific signs off Glasgow26 with a judo medal, Silver Ferns gold as all eyes turn to 2030

GLASGOW, 04 AUGUST 2026 (PMN) — Team Pacific ended the Glasgow Commonwealth Games on a high with Tonga adding one last medal, Norfolk Island celebrating a historic breakthrough and New Zealand reclaiming netball gold before the curtain came down on the 2026 Games.

The final day belonged to Tonga’s Paula Monta, who claimed bronze in the men’s +100kg judo division. He also carried his nation’s flag at the closing ceremony.

The medal is Tonga’s first Commonwealth Games medal since 2010 and capped a memorable campaign for Pacific judokas.

Earlier in the day, Vanuatu’s Alan Monthouel and Kaina Delrieu both won their opening judo contests to reach the quarter-finals before their medal hopes ended.

Fiji’s Gerard Takayawa also competed in the men’s heavyweight division as the Pacific’s judo campaign wrapped up.

There was more reason to celebrate in the bowls where Norfolk Island’s Shae Wilson won bronze in the women’s singles – the territory’s first medal of the Glasgow Games and only its third Commonwealth Games medal.

“I’ve been getting messages of encouragement for a week from everyone back home,” Wilson said after her win. “Being from such a small community, it makes it so much more special.”

New Zealand then finished their campaign in style, defeating Jamaica 56-48 to win the Commonwealth netball title for the first time since 2010.

The Silver Ferns led from the opening whistle before holding off a determined fightback from the Sunshine Girls in front of a passionate Glasgow crowd.

“We knew we had to be smart in attack and not give them too many opportunities because once they build momentum, they’re very hard to stop,” Silver Fern Georgia Heffernan told reporters after the game.

“Defensively it was a real grind, but we stayed in the contest, kept fighting, and after such a huge week, I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved.”

The victory secured New Zealand’s third Commonwealth Games netball crown and completed another successful Games for Pacific athletes, who delivered medals across weightlifting, boxing, swimming, athletics, bowls, judo and netball.

As competition ended, athletes from across the Commonwealth gathered at Glasgow’s Hydro Arena for the Closing Ceremony, where the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward, praised competitors, volunteers and organisers for bringing the Commonwealth together through sport.

“So now, in time honoured tradition, I call upon the athletes from all countries and territories of the Commonwealth to gather in four years’ time in Ahmedabad, India, to celebrate the 24th Commonwealth Games and what will be the centenary of these Games.

“Until then, on behalf of His Majesty The King, our patron, and in the name of Commonwealth Sport, I proclaim Glasgow 2026 closed.”

The colourful ceremony celebrated Scotland’s culture before handing the Commonwealth Games baton to India’s city of Amdavad, host of the 2030 Games.

Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said the city was ready to welcome the Commonwealth.

“It is a big responsibility, but we are ready,” Sanghavi said at the closing ceremony. “We will learn from Glasgow’s excellence and carry those learnings forward.”

He said Amdavad would build on Glasgow’s success with modern venues, strong transport links and a warm welcome for athletes and fans.

“When you come to Amdavad you do not simply enter a host city, you enter a home.”

The sports programme for 2030 has yet to be confirmed, although organisers say it is expected to feature between 15 and 17 sports, with cricket among the events being considered.

Pacific nations finished Glasgow 2026 with a combined 10 medals highlighted by record-breaking performances, breakthrough medals and a new generation of athletes making their mark on the Commonwealth stage.

Australia finished on top of the medal table with 70 gold medals, followed by England (26) and Canada (24) before attention turned to Amdavad 2030…. PACNEWS

PAC – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Tarona Taafaki earns tiny Tuvalu first-ever Games medal

GLASGOW, 04 AUGUST 2026 (AAP) — Tarona Taafaki has put Tuvalu on the sporting map by winning the tiny South Pacific nation’s first-ever medal at the Commonwealth Games.

And the beauty of it all is the 20-year-old southpaw, who competed in the women’s 75-kg category, achieved the feat in Glasgow without winning a fight.

Taafaki lost her only bout to Lovlina Borgohain, with the judges awarding all three rounds to the Indian.

But with only five entrants, Taafaki received a bye to the last four – guaranteeing her a spot on the podium.

The medal, nevertheless, will be celebrated with much pomp and glory in Tuvalu – an island south-east of Tonga – where athletes use the airport runway as their training base.

Taafaki knew the odds would be against her in Glasgow, but was determined to match it with some of the world’s best to make her nation proud.

“It’s a small country but we get a chance to take it on the world stage so we can represent the people that don’t usually go to international events like this with pride,” Tarona told the Oamaru Mail before the Games.

“I’m looking to inspire our fellow Tuvaluan community. I’d say we’re kind of like the underdogs going into this competition and I’m excited to prove what we’re made of.”

Nobody was more proud than her dad Badi Taafaki.

“For the people of Tuvalu, this medal means everything,” he told the Press Association. “We’re one of the smallest nations in the world, so a medal like this is hugely significant.

“We have worked so hard to get here.”

Baadi Tafaaki is also Tuvalu’s boxing coach.

His son Pasoni also competed at the Games and lost his only bout at 70kg.

Tarona and Pasoni are the oldest of eight children, all of whom are boxers. They are based in New Zealand in order to take advantage of better facilities.

“My children are very fortunate,” Badi said. “They have opportunities and facilities that I never had. Boxing is our whole life. Strength is in our bloodline.

“Yes, we train on the airport runway. When a plane comes in, everyone moves aside. As soon as it leaves, we go back on the tarmac, because there is nowhere else to train.

“If we can win medals, more people around the world will recognise Tuvalu and begin to understand the challenges we face because of climate change.”

Threatened by rising sea levels, climate experts predict half of the nation’s capital, Funafuti, could be submerged by 2050.

“It is very real for us. The coastal erosion is unbelievable, and the countdown is now measured in years, not decades.

“Some islands have lost half their land. At high tide the sea comes right through. People living on the coast can’t sleep if there’s a storm, because the waves can come straight through their homes.”

Tarona Taafaki is not the first boxer to win a Commonwealth Games medal without winning a fight.

Australia’s Taylah Robertson picked up bronze in the women’s flyweight category on the Gold Coast in 2018 despite losing her bout to England’s Lisa Whiteside…. PACNEWS

PAC – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Glasgow Games end in style as bowlers put up brave final fight

RAROTONGA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Cook Islands women’s national singles bowler Emily Jim was the final national athlete to complete her event as the 2026 Commonwealth Games wrapped up Monday morning with the closing ceremony.

In her final match, the 26-year-old fought a brave battle against her Australian competitor, Elle Fife – a 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist and one of the best singles bowlers in the world.

Jim went down 4–8 in the first set before bouncing back in the second set to shock Fife 7–5. However, the national bowler ultimately lost the match in the deciding set.

“Throughout the match, she managed to keep up with such an elite opponent. We are proud of Emily achievement,” said the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC).

Jim, who won two of her six matches, finished in 17th place overall.

Meanwhile, the national men’s pairs team of Epii Poila and Jason Lindsay finished ranked 21st after a tough final clash.

They battled the Namibian pair, going down 1–5 in the first set before winning 7–3 in the second set, but ultimately falling short in the tiebreaker.

“A brave fight from our men’s pairs Epii Poila and Jason Lindsay. They end their campaign with a close tie break against Namibia. Congratulations gentleman on a great campaign,” CISNOC said.

Team Cook Islands later joined the other nations in the closing ceremony. After 11 days of competition, filled with realised sporting dreams and lasting memories, Glasgow bade farewell to the 2026 Commonwealth Games on Sunday.

The party was already in full swing before the ceremony had even officially begun, with the jubilant crowd chanting, “No Scotland, no party!” as the host nation’s own Sandi Thom took to the stage to kick things off.

Australian singer-songwriter and actress Delta Goodrem then welcomed athletes and delegations from 74 nations and territories onto the floor, and what an entrance it was.

Medals gleaming, team kits proudly on display, and, in true Glaswegian fashion, Team Scotland parading in with iconic orange traffic cones perched on their heads.

That joyous opening set the tone for the rest of a fun-filled evening at Glasgow’s Hydro, where athletes and spectators alike soaked up a colourful celebration to bring these Games to a close.

Attention then turned to the future, as the Games were handed over to the next host, Amdavad 2030 (formerly Ahmedabad), with Tokyo 2020 Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra helping with the passing of the flag.

What followed was a vibrant taste of what awaits in four years’ time, with a colourful showcase featuring Indian stars including Shankar Mahadevan and Rashmika Mandanna. The performance had those inside the Hydro, and fans watching from home, already looking forward to the next edition of the Games.

Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, then officially declared the 2026 Commonwealth Games closed.

But Glasgow still had one final flourish up its sleeve.

Iconic Scottish rock band Simple Minds brought the curtain down in fitting fashion with “Don’t You (Forget About Me)”, as a shower of white confetti filled the arena and sent the Commonwealth athletes on their way.

Top 10 – Australia: 70 Gold, 45 Silver, 56 Bronze, 171 Total; England: 29 Gold, 45 Silver, 36 Bronze, 110 Total; Canada: 19 Gold, 20 Silver, 23 Bronze, 62 Total; India: 13 Gold, 17 Silver, 9 Bronze, 39 Total; Scotland: 13 Gold, 9 Silver, 17 Bronze, 39 Total; New Zealand: 10 Gold, 14 Silver, 12 Bronze, 36 Total; Nigeria: 10 Gold, 4 Silver, 5 Bronze, 24 Total; Jamaica: 10 Gold, 4 Silver, 5 Bronze, 19 Total; Wales: 9 Gold, 10 Silver, 12 Bronze, 31 Total; Malaysia: 8 Gold, 3 Silver, 5 Bronze, 16 Total…. PACNEWS

SAMOA – COMMONWEALTH GAMES: TALAMUA ONLINE PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Samoa ranked 17th among 36 nations in Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games

APIA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (TALAMUA ONLINE) — Samoa finished 17th out of 36 nations at the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, securing a total of two medals.

In the Pacific Region Samoa ranked 3rd, New-Zealand 2nd and Australia 1st.

Samoa earned its 2 medals from weightlifting, with Seine Stowers delivering an outstanding performance.

The women’s 77kg weightlifter set a new Commonwealth record to claim gold, while John Tafi earned Samoa’s silver in the men’s 71kg category.

Anoni Faumuina, competing on her Commonwealth debut, fought fiercely, finishing eighth in the women’s 58kg with a total of 177kg (82kg snatch and 95kg clean & jerk).

Sefulu Seuao placed sixth in the women’s 86kg event, lifting a combined total of 219kg amid a competitive field of ten.

Iuniarra Sipaia completed her campaign with a 100kg snatch but was unable to finish the Women’s +86kg after failing to complete a clean & jerk lift.

Emmanuel Shalom Palota Ulimasao demonstrated resilience in the men’s 94kg, recording a 144kg snatch and 180kg clean & jerk.

Falevaa Tafi marked his first Commonwealth Games appearance, finishing inside the top seven in the men’s 65kg.

Jack Opeloge, after a 159kg snatch, aimed for a 210kg clean & jerk but fell short.

Samoa’s 40-year-old heavyweight Sanele Mao DNF’d (Did Not Finish) in the men’s +110kg division.

In boxing, Marion Ah Tong reached the quarterfinals after defeating Kiribati’s Tavita Kaoma but was eliminated by Scotland’s Sonny Kerr.

Michael Seko also exited in the men’s +90kg quarterfinals after a narrow 3-2 decision against India’s Narender Berwal.

In swimming, the mixed 4x100m freestyle relay team smashed the national record by over four seconds with a time of 3:45.13, finishing ahead of Fiji and Papua New Guinea.

Christian Toia who competed in swimming 50m Breaststroke broke the Samoa National Record in the Men’s 50-metre Breaststroke with a new best time of 29.25.

Sixteen-year-old swimming star Nafanua Hamilton achieved a Personal Best (PB) 58.53 in 100m freestyle.

Alex Rose finished fourth in the men’s discus final with a best throw of 63.32m, while Nuuausala Tuilefano placed 11th in shot put.

Sprinter Symone Tafuna’i clocked an impressive 12.03 seconds in the women’s 100m, finishing fourth in her heat.

In judo, Peniamina “Ben” Percival narrowly missed a medal, losing in the bronze medal repechage after a tough fight against India’s Harsh Tokas…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Emirates Match Official appointments confirmed for women’s internationals from August to October

DUBLIN, 04 AUGUST 2026 (WORLD RUGBY) — World Rugby has confirmed the Emirates Match Official appointments for six women’s internationals from August to October, starting with the Fiji v South Africa test in Suva this weekend.

Jess Ling (Australia) and Amber McLachlan (Australia) will referee the two-test series between Fiji and South Africa in Suva and Lautoka on 8 and 15 August respectively, with Maggie Cogger-Orr (New Zealand, pictured) taking charge of the second O’Reilly Cup 2026 test between New Zealand and Australia in Auckland on 22 August.

Ella Goldsmith (Australia) then oversees Japan v Fiji in Fukuoka on 4 September, a day before Zoe Naude (South Africa) will referee the South Africa v New Zealand match at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg which forms part of a double header with the third test of the men’s Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.

The last of the six matches will see Ireland host Japan in Cork on 3 October, a week after the sides meet in the WXV Global Series 2026 in Galway, with Clara Munarini (Italy) in the middle.

Appointments for the WXV Global Series 2026 and WXV Global Series Challenger 2026 will be announced by World Rugby in the coming weeks…. PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

‘I need to fit and contribute’: New Drua head coach lays out clear vision for the future

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — The new Fijian Drua head coach has set the tone for the Fiji-based franchise moving forward, making it clear that players will have to work hard to ensure the team environment is enjoyable and positive.

Brad Mooar, a former All Blacks and Scotland assistant coach, was announced as Drua head coach last month, after spending the past two years with the Crusaders.

Speaking to the media in Nadi in his first press conference in his new role, Mooar said he will use his experience to help the club in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

But the way forward is clear: everyone must work and perform, in an environment that will be exciting and positive for growth as a team

“I think they can expect to enjoy being here, to enjoy coming to work, bounce out of bed to get to the Drua,” he said.

“And work hard for each other. They’ll know that effort is a compulsory requirement.

“We all work hard physically, mentally, emotionally. We will put in the effort for each other, and that will drive performance.”

Input from experience

Mooar said he will use his experience and draw from “every aspect of it for different reasons”.

He said the experience of coaching in Scotland and with the All Blacks are massively important and powerful, with his focus now on inputting into the Drua environment.

“This is the Drua environment, the Fiji environment that I’ve now privileged to be part of,” he said.

“I need to fit and contribute into this environment, not the other way around.

“So, there’s those experiences of going into each of those other teams, seeing how they roll, how they drive performance, how they care for people, very important.

“Whilst also understanding that, I need to listen and I need to watch and observe and notice and then be able to say, well, this is us. Now I understand, this is now how we can contribute.”

‘Start from a position of strength’

Mooar said he would build on what previous coaches, Mick Byrne and Glen Jackson, had already set in motion at the club.

He revealed he was attracted by the people, culture and “the opportunity with to work with some outstanding athletes in the game that we love as well”, which made him put up his hand for the role.

Seeing what the Drua means to the people of Fiji was touching, especially families who back their sons and daughters representing the club, he added.

“I always start from a position of strength, and I think the privilege of the role that I’m now in comes off the back of Mick Byrne and Glenn Jackson doing some excellent work with the Drua already,” he said.

“To be able to build off that is a great place to start. We have wonderful athletes, strong, fast, skilful, powerful athletes.

“What we need to do is to make sure we bring them together to give them real clarity of role, clarity of what what we are about as a team, and then that allows them to to bring their skill sets to the fore in every game, and take the opportunities that are in front of them.

“I think ensuring that we have a really strong set piece and an aggressive, strong defence that is built on defending our people, defending our village will be will be key roles for us to get right going forward, to add to the the attacking flair and the attacking ability that we’ve got.”

He said it was important that players, officials and fans understood that results would come from getting those elements right.

Players lead change

Mooar said some things would change but they would be a team decision, with players playing a big role in embracing the opportunity, understanding what makes the Drua outstanding, and how they can contribute to that.

“And if there’s tweaks and changes along the way, that’ll be because they’re driving us to where we want to be, and who we are,” he added.

Mooar plans to bring the players together for the pre-season in November and December, before a break for Christmas, adn return in early January to roll forward with the season.

The pre-season programme will also include players who will be returning from the Flying Fijians after the second edition of the Nations Championship in November.

The new 10-team Super Rugby Pacific season will kick off in February.

Meanwhile, on identifying local talent, Mooar said he would be closely watching players in the local competitions, such as the Fiji secondary schools Dean’s Cup and the provincial Skipper Cup Championship…. PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Tamani signs with Highlanders

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Flying Fijians and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua forward Joseva Tamani has secured a move to the Highlanders, signing a two-year contract that will keep him with the New Zealand Super Rugby Pacific franchise until the end of the 2028 season.

The versatile forward, who is capable of playing at lock and loose forward, has been a key member of the Drua setup since the club’s entry into Super Rugby Pacific and has also represented Fiji at Test level.

Tamani’s move comes after an impressive stint with the Drua, where he established himself as one of the side’s most dynamic forwards through his ball-carrying ability, athleticism and work rate around the field.

The 29-year-old previously played in France with Colomiers before returning to the Drua and now takes the next step in his career with the Dunedin-based franchise…. PACNEWS

AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

New Wallabies defensive coach McLeod’s direct defensive approach ahead of Japan debut

CANBERRA. 04 AUGUST 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU) — New Wallabies defensive coach Scott McLeod has a similar mantra when it comes to defence: get the ball.

The Kiwi coaching guru is planning to sharpen their focus on forcing turnovers after joining Les Kiss’ coaching staff ahead of Saturday’s Test against Japan in Osaka.

The 53-year-old made his name with the All Blacks, serving as defensive coach for close to six years.

Now, he turns his focus towards getting the best out of the Wallabies’ premier on-ballers and hard-hitting defenders.

“We’ve got to be in the right places at the right time to be able to get the ball,” he said on his mantra.

“The real DNA of this team is about scoring tries and playing the footy that we want to play and throwing that ball around and enjoying ourselves and expressing ourselves.

“We just have to work hard, be accurate and just get the ball to be able to do that.”

The Wallabies finished the July leg of the Nations Championship as the most prolific team in terms of ruck turnovers won, claiming 12 in three matches (per Opta), double of what Japan registered in their three matches.

With the likes of Fraser McReight and Carlo Tizzano some of the most efficient operators in the world, McLeod was out to empower their skills.

“The most critical point in Test rugby is around that collision point and the breakdown and how you do that,” he believes.

“The referee’s pretty hot on it at the moment in terms of wanting the game to flow and be a spectacle for the fans, which is good so we have to be really accurate both sides of the ball. As coaches we sit down and we talk about how we want to approach that, how we want to coach that, what are the strengths of our team that we can do well in.

“If you look at the Japan side, they are very good with continuity. They hold onto the ball really well, create a lot of LQB [lightning quick ball] and are able to build phases, so we have to be sharp in that area this week.

McLeod is very familiar with Japanese Rugby, finishing his career with Toshiba Brave Lupus after 10 caps for the All Blacks.

“They’re playing a little bit flatter, being a little bit more direct and then if they don’t get what they want there then they’re looking to kick more,” he said.

“So far this year they have kicked the second most out of any team in the world which is a real change for them, so their game management has shifted a little bit. We want to be able to try and get the ball before they kick, but also when it goes in the air, you’ve also got to be able to take that as well.”…. PACNEWS

PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Tongan powerhouse announces Warriors wāhine arrival while Wahs men hit back

WELLINGTON, 04 AUGUST 2026 (PMN) — Mele Hufanga waited months for her Warriors wāhine debut, and the Tongan powerhouse made sure it was one to remember.

The Tofoa-born centre scored one of three unanswered second-half tries for the Warriors women against the Gold Coast Titans at Geohex Park in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales on Sunday.

But it was not enough to complete the comeback with the Warriors falling 18-16 after being held scoreless in the first half.

Hufanga arrived at the Warriors after a standout 2025 season with the Brisbane Broncos where she scored the match-winning try in the NRLW Grand Final.

She signed a two-year deal with the Auckland club through to the end of 2027 but had to wait until round five to take the field after recovering from a hamstring injury.

The 31-year-old wasted little time making her mark.

On debut in Warriors colours, Hufanga finished with a try, six tackle breaks, 12 runs and 129 running metres.

Captain Apii Nicholls said it was special to see Hufanga finally get her chance.

“It’s so good to have her back, she’s been wanting this moment for a long time and she finally got it,” Nicholls said in a press conference.

“We starved her [of the ball] in the first half, the errors cost us and then the second half we were able to find momentum and get that ball out to her.”

Hufanga’s return came after missing the opening four rounds with a hamstring injury that kept her sidelined.

Despite the loss, coach Ron Griffiths believes his side can build from the performance but wants more “consistency for 70 minutes” across the full match.

“I think that’s really important for us… at the moment we ebb and flow a little bit… also there’s moments we need to chase when the games in the balance, and how we react in those scenarios with our energy,” Griffiths said post-match.

“There’s just some little key wins I think we can get this week in terms of focusing on that.”

The Warriors women will look to bounce back when they host the Newcastle Knights at FMG Stadium in Hamilton, Waikato, on Saturday. Kick-off is 7.15pm (NZT).

Wahs men respond in style

The Warriors men delivered the perfect response after last week’s 18-6 defeat to the Bankstown Bulldogs, producing their biggest win of the season with a dominant 42-6 victory over the Titans at Cbus Stadium on Saturday. The eight-tries-to-one result keeps the Wahs firmly inside the top four, sitting third on the ladder.

Pacific players played a major role in the win, with Jacob Laban leading the defensive effort with a game-high 39 tackles.

Fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad topped the running metres with 253, part Sāmoan winger Alofiana Khan-Pereira led the match for line breaks, while fellow Sāmoan Eddie Ieremia-Toeava finished with a game-high 83 fantasy points.

The Warriors now face their biggest test of the season when ladder leaders the Penrith Panthers travel to a sold-out Go Media Stadium on Friday 7 August. Kick-off is 8pm (NZT)…. PACNEWS

FIJI – RUGBY LEAGUE: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Fiji Bulikula coach search begins

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (FIJI SUN) — With less than 74 days to the Rugby League World Cup (RLWC), the hunt is now on for the Fiji Bulikula (national women’s rugby team) head coach’s job.

The position has been advertised after the contract of current head coach Joe Rabele Dakuitoga expired.

FNRL executive chairman Rajesh Singh said the recruitment process would be transparent and open to all eligible applicants, including Rabele.

“We have spoken to Joe and informed him that his contract has come to an end,” Singh told SUNsports.

“As part of good governance and transparency, we have to advertise the position and look for the best available candidate.”

Singh confirmed that an independent selection committee had been established to oversee the recruitment process.

He said he had voluntarily stepped aside from the selection panel because of his close friendship with Rabele and several other coaches expected to apply.

“I have excused myself because Joe is a good personal friend of mine, and I know a number of the other coaches as well. I don’t want anyone to question the integrity of the process, so an independent committee will handle the appointments,” he said.

Rabele is one of Fiji’s rugby league pioneers and has dedicated more than three decades to the sport as an international player and elite coach.

He guided the Bulikula through the qualifying tournament in Canada, where the side secured its first-ever Rugby League World Cup berth, and has played a significant role in the growth of women’s rugby league in Fiji.

Rabele also coached the Fiji Bati to the semi-finals of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup in Sydney, Australia.

Singh acknowledged Rabele’s contribution, saying he had assembled a strong coaching team and laid a solid foundation for future success.

“Joe has done a good job. He has built a very good coaching staff around him and they have worked hard with the players,” Singh said.

“He can also apply for the head coach’s position.”

Although Bulikula have already achieved the historic feat of qualifying for the World Cup, Singh believes the side is capable of going even further.

“I have full faith in the Bulikula. I believe they can become a top-three team in the world. I want to give the women’s programme 200 per cent support because they have the opportunity to create history for Fiji.”

He said increased funding through future rugby league development programmes would help strengthen the women’s game and grassroots pathways across the country…. PACNEWS

PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Member Associations shape the future of Just Play through regional workshop

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (OFC) — Six Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) Member Associations and one Associate Member came together in Ba, Fiji earlier this month alongside OFC Football Development and Social Responsibility staff to explore the findings of the Just Play Review and begin shaping the next phase of the programme’s transition.

Over three days, participants engaged in facilitated discussions, group reflection and peer learning, testing the review findings against their own experiences while identifying what the future of Just Play will look like in practice.

Just Play is a Football for Good programme, using football as a tool to promote learning through play. Through fun, safe and inclusive football experiences, it delivers important messages around health, gender equality, social inclusion, safeguarding and physical activity.

OFC Just Play Manager Lavenia Yalovi believes the programme’s success lies in its ability to reflect the communities it serves.

“One of the programme’s greatest strengths is its ability to adapt to each country’s unique context. Local cultures and traditions are woven into advocacy campaigns, while community festivals at the end of each curriculum cycle create positive, inclusive environments that families proudly support.”

The workshop gave Member Associations the opportunity to validate the review findings through local perspectives while openly discussing the opportunities and challenges of transition, including organisational change and long-term sustainability.

Each association presented on its current reality, key challenges and future aspirations. While every context was different, there was a clear message that Just Play remains a trusted programme that creates meaningful outcomes for children, communities and football across Oceania.

For Associate Member Kiribati, the workshop was an opportunity to ensure its unique perspective was part of the conversation. Kiribati Islands Football Federations Football Development Manager Taberannang Tearawabwebwe said having a seat at the table was both important and meaningful.

“Being part of these discussions ensures that the voice of Kiribati is heard and considered when shaping the future of football development in Oceania,” Tearawabwebwe said.

The value of learning from neighbouring Member Associations was another key takeaway.

“Each country operates within a different context, yet many share common challenges. Learning from the successes, innovations and lessons of others provided valuable insights that can help strengthen programme implementation in Kiribati.”

That collaborative spirit was echoed by Yalovi, who said peer-to-peer learning is especially powerful across Oceania.

“Sport provides a safe and enjoyable environment where young people can build confidence, develop life skills and learn from one another. The sense of community on the football field reflects the way Pacific communities support each other off the field.”

The impact of Just Play is particularly evident in the Solomon Islands, where Just Play Manager Maria Rufina said the programme reaches communities with limited opportunities for structured youth activities.

“It uses football as a tool to promote life skills, gender equality, social inclusion, non-communicable disease prevention and emergency preparedness, reaching children in remote and underserved communities where other interventions are scarce.”

For Kiribati, the programme’s future is equally promising. Tearawabwebwe said the transition towards greater Member Association ownership presents an opportunity to strengthen local leadership and further integrate Just Play into KIFF’s football development strategy, supporting inclusion, safeguarding, girls’ participation and stronger pathways for young people.

Looking ahead, Yalovi said the commitment shown throughout the workshop gives her confidence in the programme’s future.

“Together, our Member Associations, partners and stakeholders have made Just Play a lasting success, and together we will continue using football to create healthier, more inclusive and more resilient communities across the Pacific.”

Attendees: Maria Rufina Rarawa (Solomon Islands), Pelenatete Taei (Samoa), Christine Uru Wamala (Papua New Guinea), Filomena Liku (Fiji), Loriane Rorona Kalsakau (Vanuatu), Lafaele Moala (Tonga), Taberannang Tearawabwebwe (Kiribati), Steven Upfold (OFC Head of Football Development), Christine Aiken (OFC Head of Social Responsibility), Tom Gamage (OFC Social Responsibility), Palu Uhatahi Tu’amoheloa (Social Responsibility), Lavenia Yalovi (OFC Just Play Manager), Michelle Paiti (OFC Just Play Officer)…. PACNEWS

PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 | Team Profile | Tupapa Maraerenga FC

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (OFC) — Winners of OFC Men’s Champions League Qualifying for a second-year running, Cook Islands representatives Tupapa Maraerenga FC will carry the familiar underdog tag with them into a sixth group stage campaign.

Whilst they have made a habit of dominating the qualifying competition between the champion clubs of OFC’s four lowest-ranked member associations in recent times, it has been 25 years since Tupapa Maraerenga FC last won a match at the tournament proper, a 2-1 win over PanSa FC in 2001.

“We all want results but sometimes it doesn’t happen that way,” says Paavo Mustonen, a former player who will be part of the coaching staff in Fiji. “Playing the best in the region, you get to test yourself. I love that!”

Tupapa Maraerenga FC topped the qualifying tournament in Apia in February with seven points from three games. But they’ve now been drawn into Group B at the OFC Men’s Champions League 2026 with Rewa FC, Galaxy FC, and Lae City FC, where they’ll start as firm outsiders to get a result.

“We’ve just got to take it one step at a time,” adds Mustonen. “It’s going to be another step up but we’re hoping we can pull off a few upsets. Mentally, we’ll have to be switched on.”

History

Only one club, Lupe Ole Soaga of Samoa, have won a match in the group stage of an OFC Men’s Champions League since the qualifying tournament was re-introduced in its current format in 2013.

It’s led to a familiar tale for Tupapa Maraerenga FC, who have scored just five goals and lost all 12 matches at the group stage since their last and only win at this stage of the competition in 2001. Last year they lost all three of their group stage games by heavy margins in Honiara.

The Coach: Jarves Aperau

Serving as a player/coach in Fiji, Jarves Aperau has played in one qualifying tournament before for Tupapa Maraerenga FC in 2020. He is also the head coach of the Cook Islands U-16 national team.

Should Aperau take to the field, he’ll be supported by Paavo Mustonen on the touchline, who himself has played in three qualifying tournaments for Tupapa Maraerenga.

The Squad

Tupapa Maraerenga FC were able to call upon six loanee players for their qualifying tournament win six months ago, but only two remain, and both Daniel Bunch and Jordan Boon (the stars of that qualifying success), are not in the 22-man squad for their group stage campaign in Fiji.

Rather, two Tahitian players have been added to the squad for their OFC Men’s Champions League squad, Honoura Maraetefau and Tauhiki Bohl, as well as Samoan defender Key Viliamu from Vaipuna SC.

Of the overall squad, 14 have played in the group stage of the competition before, including ten from last year’s campaign in Honiara.

Player to Watch: Honoura Maraetefau

24-year-old Tahitian defender Honoura Maraetefau is a major boost for Tupapa Maraerenga’s sixth group stage campaign and has five international caps for Tahiti, all of which came in 2023, and two at the 2023 Pacific Games.

He joins from Tahitian powerhouses AS Tefana, who finished top of the Ligue 1 regular season standings for 2026, and previously played for them in the two-legged Tahiti OFC Men’s Champions League play-off for Tefana in 2024.

Match Schedule

Sunday 9th August, 12pm local time

Lae City FC v Tupapa Maraerenga FC

Churchill Park, Lautoka

Wednesday 12th August, 4pm local time

Rewa FC v Tupapa Maraerenga FC

4R Govind Park, Ba

Saturday 15th August, 12pm local time

Tupapa Maraerenga FC v Galaxy FC

4R Govind Park, Ba…. PACNEWS

PAC – FOOTBALL: REUTERS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Small nations hold big cards as FIFA chief Infantino scrambles for support

MELBOURNE, 04 AUGUST 2026 (REUTERS) — Gianni Infantino’s hopes of extending his FIFA presidency may rest less on winning back soccer’s traditional powers than on calling in favours from the many small and emerging nations that rely ‌heavily on the world governing body’s largesse.

Infantino is facing the biggest crisis of his decade-long tenure after regional confederations UEFA and CONCACAF declared no confidence in his leadership following the abortive proposal to bring private equity into the World Cup.

He confirmed his intention to stand for a fourth term at next year’s Congress in April but the pressure on Infantino may not wait until the election.

Wales on Monday became the first soccer federation to formally withdraw support for Infantino, while European body UEFA confirmed it had written to the 56-year-old Swiss to inform him it was weighing legal action against him regarding the proposal.

Opponents can ⁠mount a push to depose him with a vote at an Extraordinary Congress (EC) if 20 percent of FIFA’s membership of 211 member associations request one in writing.

An EC would need to be held within three months of a request, providing time for rival candidates to emerge.

UEFA, whose 55 member nations voted to boycott all FIFA tournaments if the stake sale went ahead, alone could trigger an EC with a unanimous vote.

But getting a majority of FIFA’s membership to vote Infantino out at the EC may not be an easy task.

Despite vast disparities in wealth, soccer development and influence across the footballing world, all 211 nations have an equal vote.

Rather than smoothing things over with established football giants like France, Spain and England, Infantino’s best chance of clinging to power may rest with members like Bhutan and Vanuatu — emerging nations that have never competed at a World Cup and rely overwhelmingly on FIFA to support their football programmes and participate in international events.

FIFA members have been able to claim up ‌to $3 million ⁠for soccer development projects over the course of the 2023-26 World Cup cycle, $1 million more than the previous cycle.

The money is small beer for rich nations with professional teams but vital for football’s have-nots.

The stake sale was always aimed at the latter members, and many have done well under Infantino’s patronage.

VANUATU INFLUENCE

Vanuatu are ranked 160th in the world and sixth among the Oceania confederation teams but their football association head Lambert Maltock has a seat at FIFA’s highest table as one of eight vice-presidents in the body’s Executive Council.

FIFA gave the island ⁠nation of about 340,000 people a development grant of $4.15 million to help build a 6,500-seat stadium in the capital Port Vila, which was completed in 2022.

For Vanuatu’s first professional player, Brian Kaltak, Infantino’s backing has been a huge boost for the country and developing nations generally.

“First of all, he gave a chance for our president to be part of FIFA and ⁠then with development projects, he’s been trying to grow the game — not just Vanuatu but all third-world countries,” the Perth Glory defender told Reuters on Monday…. PACNEWS

PAC – VOLLEYBALL: GUAM DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Guam shuts out American Samoa in men’s volleyball Oceania Championships opener

HAGATNA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (GUAM DAILY POST) — With tremendous games from Ethan Alvarez, Antonio Egurrola, Leiland Gumabon, Joseph Mafnas, Ezekiel Sablan and Noah Taitano, Guam’s men’s national volleyball team shut out American Samoa 25-21, 25-19, 25-20 in the Oceania Volleyball Championships Monday morning at the University of Guam Calvo Field House in Mangilao.

From the opening serve to the final match-winning spike from Alvarez, Guam kept the foot on the gas. Even as American Samoa big man John Muliaga racked up a game-high 15 kills, the young, hungry Guam squad never faltered, remained focused, and delivered a tone-setting win.

“It’s always good putting your foot down, telling the other teams where you’re at, and then giving the other boys confidence and good morale for everybody,” Sablan said.

In the opening set, Sablan’s above-the-net play led to an unmatched five kills. On the very first point, a thunderous spike from the 19-year-old christened the scoreboard with the tournament’s first point. As the set advanced, Guam cemented its dominance ever further – Taitano recording two kills and an ace and Mafnas added two kills and a tap to the open floor to pull the Guam national team to their first set point.

It took two set points, but Sablan drove a spike crosscourt that cleared the net by inches and tattooed an American Samoan player square in the back.

With the opening set etched in the record book, one where Muliaga started hot but cooled off considerably, the lanky lefty began the second set with dogged determination.

With little offensive output from most of the other American Samoan players, Muliaga pounded five additional kills. Without many surprises from American Samoa in their offensive attack, Alvarez, Egurrola, Sablan and Taitano went to work, combining for 11 kills, three blocks and three aces. With Alvarez, Sablan and Taitano providing offensive power from above and behind the service line, Egurrola’s and Mafnas’ shot-blocking ability plugged the middle.

On set point, American Samoa blasted a serve past the baseline.

Leading 2-0, Guam had more work at hand but they inched ever-closer to victory.

For American Samoa to remain in the game, they needed more creativity and more offensive options.

Muliaga, with his most productive set, smashed six kills and teammate Leviticus Mavaega added three, but Guam’s balanced attack and all-court hustle secured the victory.

“He’s going to get his kills. But if we can minimise that and then force the other players to play it out, then that means that we can have the opportunity to play the ball,” Alvarez said.

If the ball doesn’t go to Muliaga, “it’s not going to be a guaranteed kill,” Alvarez added. “So what we did was try and minimise his points, and then maximise our points.”

In the final set, Egurrola hit a trio of kill shots, Sablan added two and Alvarez sealed the game with a crosscourt kill.

“‘This is going to be a point,’” Alvarez thought as an out-of-system ball came toward him as he waited for it to drop perfectly where he was standing. “‘It’s just another day. It’s just another dollar. I’m going to put that in where I want to put it, and I just go for it.’”

Next, in their second game in Pool A at 6 p.m. Tuesday, at UOG, Guam will take on New Caledonia. American Samoa will play Palau, the other team in the pool, at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, at the Field House.

In the upcoming game against New Caledonia, Guam will be outsized. For Guam to be successful, they must control the net.

“Just moving forward, we have to be better on defense, obviously on serves as well, starting off stronger and staying way bigger at the net – as New Caledonia has way bigger boys than American Samoa,” Sablan said. “I always see it as a good challenge. I love playing bigger people. It’s always fun and exciting for me, gets me energised.”

With their first win notched, Guam is getting a crash course in on-the-job training. As a complete unit, they have only been together for about three weeks.

“As the full team, we have not been playing long together,” Alvarez said, “Overall, we just have such similar personalities. We have a similar drive to win, and I think that’s the reason why we mesh together,” he said…. PACNEWS

PAC – MSG PM CUP: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Vanuatu begins preparations to defend MSG PM Cup title

PORT VILA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Vanuatu has begun preparations for its MSG Prime Ministers’ (PM) Cup title defence, with a 30-player preliminary squad starting training under head coach Richard Iwai and assistant coach Jean-Yves Galinie.

The preliminary squad includes players from clubs across Port Vila, featuring selections from the Premier Division, Super League Division, and Vanuatu United squad.

With just over a month remaining before the fifth edition of the event kicks off in Suva, Fiji, the defending champions are determined to retain their title.

The squad will undergo two weeks of intensive training before the coaching staff narrows the group to the final travelling team.

Assistant coach Jean-Yves Galinie said player fitness is the team’s top priority during the early stages of preparation.

“Some players are only just beginning their rest period after a long season, while others have had time to recover. It is now up to each player to perform well, demonstrate their fitness, and prove they deserve selection,” Galinie said.

Competition is expected to be particularly strong among the goalkeepers, with four talented shot-stoppers battling for just three places in the final squad.

Returning goalkeeper Zachariah Walu, Sterry Tor, James Iamar, and last year’s penalty shootout hero Kalo Firiam will all be looking to impress the coaching staff during training.

Galinie praised the quality of the goalkeeping group, describing them as among the country’s best, but acknowledged that only three will make the final squad.

The returning players from last year’s successful campaign are also eager to earn another opportunity to represent Vanuatu.

Goalkeeper Zackariah Walu, who was part of the championship-winning squad, said he is focused on performing at his best throughout the selection process.

“My goal is to give my best in training, impress the coaches, and hopefully earn another place in the national team,” Walu said.

Vanuatu will travel to Fiji aiming to defend the championship they won after defeating Papua New Guinea on home soil in last year’s final. The team hopes to once again lift the MSG Prime Ministers Cup and continue its successful run on the regional stage…. PACNEWS

SAMOA – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Death during brawl at league game in Samoa raises safety question

APIA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — There’s been a call for police in Samoa to attend local sports matches after the death of a man during a rugby league game over the weekend.

The incident has raised questions about safety at community sporting events, but police say discipline cannot depend solely on officers being present.

A Marist Saints rugby league player, known as Saveatama Faamavaega Saveatama, died as a result of an altercation at the Vaiala Rugby Fields on Saturday during a match between Marist Saints and the Apia Barracudas.

Social media was flooded with footage of the brawl between players which continued in spite of the deceased lying flat on the ground, unconscious.

Brawl on video

It was only until the altercation eased off that some people turned to the deceased and assisted although it was too late.

RNZ understands that these videos have all been reported to police as part of the collected evidence.

Acting Police Commissioner Leiataua Samelu Afamasaga said no one had been charged as investigators continued to gather evidence.

“The evidence needs to be beyond reasonable doubt before we can charge someone. We haven’t found anyone yet,” he said.

“So our investigation continues and we need to be satisfied that there is enough evidence to charge a certain suspect.”

Leiataua said while tragedies cannot always be prevented, police remain focused on taking a proactive approach to law enforcement.

“The thing is, we cannot avoid what has already happened and the things that happen as part of life. However, we try and be proactive and preventive through our work as law enforcement.”

‘Refrain from retaliatory actions’

The Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services (SPPCS) are continuing to investigate the incident and are appealing to members of the public who may have recorded videos or possess any footage to provide it directly to investigators or through the SPPCS’ Facebook page.

“While videos are circulating on social media, the public is strongly urged to provide any such footage to the police, as it may assist significantly with the investigation,” police said in a statement.

Authorities said public cooperation was vital in helping maintain peace and order at sporting events while supporting the pursuit of justice for the family of the deceased.

Police also urged those involved not to retaliate.

“We urge all parties involved to refrain from retaliatory actions. Such conduct will be dealt with swiftly and will face the full extent of the law.”

The incident has also prompted calls for a stronger police presence at community rugby matches.

Attempts to get a comment from the mayor of Vaiala on how the village bylaws are handling the matter, were unsuccessful.

Village concern

A village meeting for Vaiala was expected to take place to discuss matters pertaining to the village including this incident.

Vaiala’s female representative, Sileoleoga Patu Wilson, described the incident as deeply concerning and said it was the first time she had heard of someone dying in connection with games in Vaiala.

“This is the first time I have heard of someone dying from such games especially here in Vaiala so this is concerning and we need to make sure this doesn’t happen again,” she told RNZ Pacific.

“Part of that is making sure the police are present at these events to prevent such behaviour from taking place.”

Wilson said she did not know the full circumstances surrounding the incident but believed it highlighted the need to encourage young people to stay away from violence.

“I don’t have any specific information about what happened but for me as the female representative for Vaiala, it’s important to encourage our young ones to stay away from such behaviours.”

She said it remained unclear whether the victim was from Vaiala, who the young people involved were or exactly what had happened.

“We’re not sure at the moment whether the victim is from Vaiala and who the kids involved are and what exactly happened and whether he was a player or whatever but it did happen.”

Wilson said spectators needed to stop interfering with matches and allow referees to do their jobs.

“So it’s important to advice our young ones to stop with this behaviour and stop interfering with the games. That’s what the referees are for and I see a lot of this happen not just here in Vaiala but elsewhere too as there’s a lot of rugby fields across the country now.”

She added that while villages have councils, chiefs and bylaws to deal with such behaviour, police presence at games, as had occurred in the past, could also help deter violence.

“We have our village councils and chiefs and bylaws that deal with such matters within villages as well as the police and we would appreciate it if the police officers were to be present at the fields during the games like how it was back then.”

Police can’t be ‘superman’

Responding to those calls, Leiataua said there was no law requiring police officers to be present at every rugby match.

“There is no law that states something like that, that we should be at all the games. There’s more than 20 games happening at the same times as the others so we cannot be at all the games.

“We only do something like that when it’s the international games. We also show support or attend when we’re requested to by certain clubs and so forth.”

Instead, he said discipline should already be embedded within rugby clubs and communities through the values of Fa’asamoa.

“So the discipline and that should already be instilled in any rugby union (or clubs) and the everyday Fa’asamoa that we’re used to which is respect and everything else that comes with it.

“This mentality that discipline is only possible when police is around shouldn’t be a thing. It should already be there everywhere with or without the police’s supervision.”

Asked whether police would review how officers are deployed following the incident, Leiataua said it was something authorities could consider but cautioned against assuming police presence alone would prevent violence.

“The only thing we can do is look into it. If a brawl or fight was to break out and there’s four police officers present, they won’t be able to prevent something like that from happening.

“So with or without police supervision, it’ll still be the same if we all don’t work together.

“It’d be nice if we had superpowers like Superman. But again, police or no police, nothing won’t work if we don’t work together.”

Police are appealing for anyone who recorded the incident or has relevant footage to provide it directly to investigators, saying the material could prove crucial in helping establish exactly what happened and supporting the pursuit of justice for the family of the deceased…. PACNEWS

FIJI – SPORTS: FIJIVILLAGE PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 04 Aug 2026

Fiji needs $300 million to upgrade sporting facilities – Mazey

SUVA, 04 AUGUST 2026 (FIJIVILLAGE) — Fiji requires an estimated $300 million (US$150 million) to upgrade its sporting facilities, according to Fiji Sports Commission Chairman Peter Mazey.

He says the country’s ageing infrastructure remains one of the biggest challenges facing local sports.

Mazey made the comments while responding to concerns raised by Fiji Pearls coach Michelle Parsons about the standard of netball facilities in the country.

Speaking to fijivillage Sports, Parsons says the difference between the courts in Fiji and Australia became evident during the Fiji Pearls’ recent participation in the Spirit Games in Sydney.

She says the players were amazed by the quality of the playing surface in Australia, describing it as vastly superior to what they are accustomed to in Fiji.

Parsons says the court at Vodafone Arena is slippery, making it difficult for players to stop and change direction naturally during matches.

She adds that the poor surface forces players to mechanically adjust their movements, increasing the risk of injury and affecting performance.

Parsons also highlighted that children as young as eight and nine years old in Australia are playing on courts that are of a higher standard than those available to Fiji’s national players.

She stressed that Fiji needs significant investment in sporting facilities if athletes are to compete consistently at the highest level.

Mazey acknowledged the concerns, noting that the courts at Vodafone Arena are shared by several sports, making upgrades more complex.

He said infrastructure is a major challenge across all sporting codes and the financial commitment required is substantial.

Mazey says the Sports Commission estimates it needs about $300 million (US$150 million) to modernise sporting facilities around the country, comparing the scale of the investment to constructing a new Colonial War Memorial (CWM) Hospital.

He added that, for now, the commission is working with the resources it has while continuing to seek funding for major upgrades.

Meanwhile, Parsons says Fiji also has an opportunity to strengthen its position in international netball if the sport is included in the 2032 Olympic Games.

She noted that greater male participation is one of the requirements being discussed internationally and believes Fiji compares well with many other countries in encouraging men to play the sport…. PACNEWS

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PACNEWS SPORTS Tuesday 4 August 2026 © Copyright PINA 2026