The Class of 2024
Papali’itele Peter Fatialofa
Papali’itele Peter Momoe Fatialofa, affectionately known as “Fats”, was a beloved icon in Samoan and New Zealand rugby and indeed across the globe. With his larger than life personality, his legacy inspired a generation and continues to inspire generations of young Samoan and Pasifika rugby players in particular. A son of South Auckland, Fatialofa’s Samoan roots are from the village of Lepa, his first class rugby journey began at a young age as part of John Hart’s incomparable Auckland Rugby team of the early and mid 1980’s for whom he played 78 games for.
Papali’i Peter was a true trailblazer, among the first New Zealand-based players to proudly don the Samoan jersey with his selection to his beloved Manu Samoa team firstly in 1988 and then going on to Captain the Manu Samoa team in their historic first appearance at the RWC in 1991. His leadership proved invaluable as he captained Samoa to epic heights, defeating Wales on their way to qualifying for the quarter finals where they were pipped by Scotland.
Beyond the rugby pitch, Fats embraced the roles of dedicated Matai to his aiga, family man and successful businessman, skillfully balancing his sporting endeavors with his responsibilities as an owner director in the family’s piano and furniture moving business. Recognition of Papali’i Peter’s enduring legacy was further immortalized in 2019 when he was posthumously honored with induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to his unwavering passion for Samoa rugby and his influence on the game.
The late Papali’itele Peter Fatialofa’s memory continues to shines bright , he remains a beacon of inspiration and pride for Pasifika athletes worldwide, embodying the essence of Pasifika excellence and leaving a unique and special legacy that transcends generations.
Papali’itele made 34 appearances for Manu Samoa and also served Samoa rugby in coaching capacities for Manu Samoa and Manu Sina.
Jonah Lomu
Jonah Tali Lomu was rugby’s first truly global sporting superstar whose legend remains unparallelled. Born in south Auckland, hailing from the village of Holopeka, on the island of Lifuka, Ha’apai, Kingdom of Tonga, Lomu’s remarkable combination of power and pace, skill and imposing physique distinguished him as a standout player from the moment he burst onto the global stage as an 18 year old Wesley College High school protégée to been capped as the youngest All Black at age 19 years 45 days in 1994.
Jonah’s legend as a rugby phenomena was cemented with his unforgettable performances at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, despite his youth and relative inexperience. His impact on that event catapulted him to unparalleled fame. Lomu’s incredible speed, raw strength and power redefined wing play, setting new standards for excellence and inspiring generations of players.
Jonah Lomu’s courage, strength of character and indomitable spirit will forever be immortalized in that he played most of his career with a rare kidney disorder. Whilst Jonah is no longer with us, his legacy lives on, transcending the boundaries of the sport he loved, his outstanding life leaving an indelible mark on the global rugby and sporting community and for generations to come.
Jonah made 73 appearances for the All Blacks, playing 63 Test matches, a Commonwealth Games Gold medalist with the All Black Sevens team in 1998, 59 super rugby games for the Blues, Chiefs and Hurricanes and was inducted into the International rugby Hall of Fame in 2007.
Tuifa’asasina Sir Bryan Williams
Tuifa’asisina Sir Bryan Williams remains one of the most loved and highly regarded icons of New Zealand, Pacific and world rugby. Born in Auckland to Samoan, Cook Island and European parentage, Tuifa’asisina’s High Chief title links him to his Samoan Village of Leauva’a. Sir Beegee as he is affectionately referred to burst onto the All Black stage as a 19 year old teenage sensation fresh faced out of the Mt Albert Grammar 1st XV and Ponsonby rugby club, in 1970, lighting up the test match arena on his first test appearance for New Zealand against the Springboks. He would go on to play 113 games for the All Blacks including 38 Tests. His 66 tries were an All Black record until Sir John Kirwan eventually surpassed his mark. Williams went on to play 269 first class matches, 132 for Auckland, and score 137 tries. Sir Bryan is often referred to as the Godfather of Pasifika rugby who broke the ceiling for aspiring Pasifika rugby players and he is adored and revered by generations of Pasifika and non Pasifika alike.
Throughout his illustrious career, Sir Beegee Williams has received numerous accolades for his outstanding contributions to rugby as a player, coach and administrator. Sir Bryan had an impressive and stellar coaching career with Ponsonby, Auckland and Manu Samoa, often credited for masterminding the demise of highly fancied Six Nation rugby teams such as Wales and Ireland, at the hands of the Manu men. Tuifa’asasina was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1983 and knighted as a Knight Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (KNZM) in 2018 in recognition of his exceptional achievements, Williams was also inducted into the prestigious World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2018. and has served as President of Ponsonby, NZ Barbarians, Auckland and President of New Zealand Rugby Unions, he is also a Life Member of New Zealand Rugby. He continues to serve Pasifika rugby in his capacity as Patron and Board member of Moana Pasifika.
Sir Bryan George Williams’s legacy as a rugby icon and his commitment to excellence makes him a deserving inaugural inductee into the 2024 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame. His enduring impact on the sport and his dedication to Pasifika excellence will be honoured and celebrated for generations to come.
Muliagatele Brian Lima
Muliagatele Brian Pala Lima, a true son of Samoa and Manu Samoa legend, is celebrated for his formidable presence on the field, earning the nickname “The Chiropractor” for his powerful bone crunching tackles. Born in Samoa from the villages of Letogo, Afega and Avao, Brian’s international rugby career spanned two decades and is one of only three players to play at five rugby world cups and the very first rugby player to achieve this incredible accomplishment at the 2007 RWC.
Representing Samoa in 64 international matches, Brian is Samoa’s most capped player and still holds the record for most tries scored for Samoa. Brian was a key member of the first Manu Samoa Rugby World cup team in 1991 playing a key role in his team’s historic victory over Wales iat Cardiff Arms Park. His versatility extended to rugby sevens, where he excelled, scoring 17 tries in Rugby World Cup Sevens tournaments.
Lima’s professional journey included stints with esteemed clubs such as Munster, the Blues, Auckland, the Highlanders, and Secom in Japan. His leadership extended off the field as well, taking on the role of Head Coach for the Samoa national rugby sevens team in 2020, guiding the next generation of Samoan rugby talent and building one of the most successful Manu Sevens team.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport and his nation, Brian Pala Lima was honored with the Order of Merit of Samoa in 2014, showcasing his unwavering dedication and leadership both on and off the field. His indomitable spirit and remarkable achievements continue to inspire generations of rugby enthusiasts, embodying the essence of Samoan pride, strength, and resilience. Brian was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2011 and his legacy as a true ambassador of the sport will forever be cherished and celebrated through his induction into the 2024 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame.
Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili
High Chief Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili, is a true trailblazer for the women’s game globally. Seiuli was born in Samoa and hails from the villages of Fogapoa, Faleula and Aleisa. Seiuli family migrated to New Zealand when she was five years old.
Seiuli is celebrated for her extraordinary rugby career marked by the incomparable achievement of representing New Zealand in five Rugby World Cups, winning four of these for the Black Ferns and serving as captain of the from 2012 to 2018. Seiuli has played over 100 games for Auckland and won several New Zealand provincial titles in the famous blue and white hoops. Seiuli as a front row hooker with extraordinary strength and power and has been the backbone of Auckland and Black Fern forward packs. Seiuli is the first Black Fern to reach the 50-game milestone.
In acknowledgment of her remarkable contributions to rugby, Fa’amausili was appointed an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) in the 2018 Queen’s Birthday Honours. Additionally, she was honored with induction into the prestigious World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2022.
Beyond rugby, Fa’amausili balances her passion for the game with a distinguished professional life. As a police detective in South Auckland, she demonstrates her commitment to serving her community. Moreover, her historic election as the Auckland Rugby Union’s first female President in 2021 highlights her trailblazing spirit and leadership abilities.
Fiao’o Fa’amausili’ s legacy as a trailblazer in rugby and community leader embodies the essence of Pasifika excellence. Her induction into the 2024 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame celebrates her remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the sport.
George Smith
George Smith is celebrated as one of the Wallabies greatest players, becoming the second most capped Wallaby forward in history with 111 appearances for Australia and fifth most capped Wallaby of all time. Smith is also the second most capped flanker ever, behind Richie McCaw.
Australian born but proud of his roots to the village of Fua’amotu in Tongatapu, Kingdom of Tonga, Smith’s exceptional versatility and skill as a flanker and number 8, has left an indelible mark on rugby over his illustrious two-decade career. Representing the ACT Brumbies from 1999, he amassed an impressive 142 caps over 12 years, In 2019, Smith bid farewell to professional rugby, leaving behind a legacy of excellence and sportsmanship. Off the field, he is esteemed for his philanthropy, embodying the spirit of giving back to the community. Smith’s contributions were recognized with his appointment as a Member of the Order of Australia in 2012.
George Smith’s remarkable career exemplifies Pasifika excellence through his unwavering dedication, talent, and commitment to the sport of rugby. Smith was inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame last year and his induction into the 2024 Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame is a testament to his enduring impact on the game and as a role model and inspiration for future generations of players, both on and off the field.
Waisale Serevi
Waisale Tikoisolomoni Serevi, is revered as rugby sevens greatest player, earning the title “The Wizard” and “King of Sevens” for his mesmerizing skills and unparalleled contributions to Fiji and the global growth and influence of rugby sevens. Born in Fiji’s Gau Island with links to the village of Somosomo, Serevi’s very name engenders awe, mystique and inspiration across the Pacific and rugby world. Serevi played for Fiji in the 15 a side game 39 times, including representing the Flying Fijians at three Rugby World cups, 1991, 199 and 2003. Serevi’s glittering sevens career started in 1989, representing Fiji in four Rugby Sevens World cups in 1993, 1997, 2001 and 2005, winning the World cup in 1997 and 2005. Serevi also played professionally for the Mitsubishi, Leicester, Stade Montois, Stade Bordelais and Staines rugby teams.
Off the field, Serevi’s commitment to rugby remained steadfast as he transitioned into coaching, leading Fiji to a historic victory in the 2005–06 World Sevens Series, showcasing his ability to inspire and nurture talent.
Serevi was honoured for his massive contribution to rugby by been inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame in n 2013, the first Fijian to receive the honour.
Serevi’s impact transcends the boundaries of rugby, earning him induction into the prestigious Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame in 2024. This honor further solidifies his status as one of rugby’s all-time greats, serving as a beacon of inspiration for generations to come and epitomizing the spirit of Pasifika excellence and achievement.