PENINA PASIFIKA WOMEN'S RUGBY TEAM MAKES HISTORIC DEBUT IN AUSTRALIA
Penina Pasifika women's rugby team welcomed by local Pasifika and community leaders, alongside Rugby Australia officials (Photo: Supplied)
In a groundbreaking moment for women's rugby and Pacific sports, the newly established Penina Pasifika women's rugby team has embarked on a journey to Australia for their inaugural match against the Queensland Reds in the Super Rugby Women pre-season tournament.
Amidst a backdrop of anticipation and excitement, local Pasifika and community leaders, alongside Rugby Australia officials, gathered to extend a warm welcome to the Penina Pasifika team at a special dinner held in their honor. City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate personally greeted each player, emphasizing the community's readiness to support the team during their stay and expressing eagerness to attend their matches.
Daniel Millis, Rugby Australia's Pacific Partnership Manager, conveyed his enthusiasm about hosting Penina Pasifika in Australia for Rugby Australia's pre-season competition. He underscored the significance of the partnership with Pacific Unions, World Rugby, Oceania Rugby, and the Australian Government in providing an unparalleled development opportunity to strengthen women's rugby across the region.
The anticipation reaches a crescendo as Penina Pasifika prepares to take the field against the Queensland Reds at Ballymore in Brisbane on Saturday, February 23, with local rugby enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the clash. The Penina Pasifika team is poised to showcase their skills and talent on this historic occasion, representing a significant milestone for women's rugby in the Pacific.
Shonte’ To’a from Tonga expressed gratitude to the local community for the warm welcome and paid respects to the local Jellurgal First Nations people of the Gold Coast, highlighting the team's appreciation for the cultural significance of the land they now tread upon.
Nina Foaese from Samoa acknowledged the overwhelming support Penina Pasifika has received, extending thanks to stakeholders such as PacificAus Sports and the broader Pasifika community, as well as the Gold Coast community for their hospitality.
This historic moment is not merely a sporting event; it symbolizes a larger commitment to inclusivity and empowerment. The Australian Government's partnership with Rugby Australia, Oceania Rugby, and World Rugby demonstrates a concerted effort to support the establishment of Penina Pasifika and promote the inclusion of women and girls from across the Pacific in rugby and other sports.
Funded through the Australian Government's PacificAus Sports program, Penina Pasifika aims to create pathways for Pacific players to compete at the highest levels of Australian rugby, fostering a new era of sporting excellence and diversity. PacificAus Sports is dedicated to creating opportunities for athletes, coaches, and administrators to train, play, and grow together, unlocking the potential of a new generation of sporting champions.
As the Penina Pasifika team prepares to make history on Australian soil, their journey represents more than just a rugby match—it signifies a step forward in the pursuit of inclusivity, diversity, and excellence in sports. With the support of their communities and partners, Penina Pasifika is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of rugby, inspiring generations to come.