A night of Pasifika excellence and legacy, and it’s only the second ever

On April 10 2025, the second-ever Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony brought together players, families, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate the legacy of Pasifika rugby legends. Held with reverence and joy, this special evening recognised the achievements of seven Pasifika rugby players from the all-time greats, national heroes, and pioneers of the sport. Inducting the Class of 2025On a night filled with warmth and cultural pride, seven rugby legends were inducted into the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame - former All Black captain Fa’alogo Tana Umaga (Samoa/New Zealand), previous Rugby World Cup winner Viliami Ofahengaue (Tonga/Australia), women’s rugby trailblazer Monique Hirovanaa (Cook Island/New Zealand), ex-Flying Fijian player and coach Seremaia Bai (Fiji), Ikale Tahistalwart Malakai ‘Alatini (Tonga), all-time great Savae Sir Michael Jones (Samoa/New Zealand) and the late Va’aiga Tuigamala (Samoa/Tonga/New Zealand). The class of 2025 was acknowledged for their contributions to the sport and their community, cementing their legacy as Pasifika rugby legends. Viliami Ofahengaue, or ‘Willie O’, was unable to attend, however his brother Epalahame Ofahengaue gracefully accepted the prestigious honour. The late Va’aiga Tuigamala was represented by his wife Daphne Tuigamala and his two sons, one of whom shared a sentimental poem that inspired his father and united the audience.

Honouring our Pasifika Rugby Award Winners

With a commitment to Pasifika excellence, the evening featured the presentation of a special series of awards. Fijian Drua co-captain Tevita Ikaniverereceived the Jonah Lomu Men’s Player of the Year Award for his outstanding performance and leadership in the 2024 Super Rugby Pacific competition.The Seiuli FIao’o Fa’amausili Women’s Player of the Year was awarded to Samoan second-rower Masuisuimatama’ali’i Tauaua-Pauaraisa for herimpressive display throughout her 2024 rugby campaign. All Blacks powerhouse Wallace Sititi was awarded the Waisale Serevi Men’s BreakthroughPlayer of the Year, while Sylvia Brunt took home the inaugural Monique Hirovanaa Women’s Breakthrough Player of the Year Award - each for theirstandout seasons in their respective codes.

An exciting opportunity for aspiring Pasifika athletes

In a powerful step toward nurturing future generations, the evening also marked the announcement of the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame in Partnership with the Sir Michael Jones Foundation Scholarship. This initiative was designed to support young Pasifika athletes who demonstrate not only on-field talent but a strong connection to their culture and community, and a commitment in pursuit of further education. The scholarship aims to remove barriers and create pathways for Pasifika athletes in the form of financial assistance and mentorship from esteemed figures in the sporting community. The scholarship will play a crucial role in developing the next generation of Pasifika athletes while honouring the legacy of those who paved the way.

It takes a village

From the heartfelt speeches to the joyful embraces and shared memories, the night was a reminder that behind every achievement stands a village of support. This was more than an event - it was a celebration of Pasifika excellence, legacy and the shared journey of our people.