The First PRHOF Inductee Dinner Was a Huge Success

The Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame induction ceremony, held on March 28, 2024, at Eden Park, was a historic evening that celebrated the exceptional contributions of Pasifika rugby players who have left an indelible mark on the sport. This special event gathered a vibrant crowd, including former Samoan and Tongan players, to honour the achievements of seven rugby legends who have shaped the legacy of Pasifika rugby on the world stage.

Celebrating Rugby Legends

The evening was dedicated to recognizing the extraordinary careers of the seven inductees: the late Jonah Lomu (Tonga/New Zealand), the late Pita Fatialofa (Samoa), Waisale Serevi (Fiji), George Smith (Tonga/Australia), Muliagatele Brian Lima (Samoa), Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili (Samoa/New Zealand), and Tuifa’asisina Sir Bryan Williams (Samoa/New Zealand). These rugby icons, who have already been inducted into the World Rugby Hall of Fame, are celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions to the sport and for inspiring generations of Pasifika athletes.

A particularly moving moment came when Nadene Lomu, the wife of the late Jonah Lomu, took the stage to represent her husband. She spoke with deep pride about the enduring legacy Jonah left for young Pasifika people, reminding them to rise above challenges and pursue their dreams with determination.

Recognising Outstanding Talent

In addition to the Hall of Fame inductions, the ceremony honoured other remarkable individuals with prestigious awards. All Black Ardie Savea received the Jonah Lomu Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame Award for most influential player in the world, recognizing his outstanding influence and leadership in the game. Black Ferns wing Ruby Tui was awarded the Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili Award for the most influential Pasifika woman player, highlighting her trailblazing role in women’s rugby.

The Waisale Serevi Pasifika Breakthrough Player of the Year Award went to All Black Mark Telea and French women’s rugby star Manae Feleu, who hails from Wallis and Futuna. Their achievements in the game continue to inspire Pasifika athletes worldwide.

Reflections from the Inductees

The inductees shared heartfelt reflections on their careers and the support they received along the way.

Waisale Serevi, the legendary Fiji sevens player, expressed his gratitude to all the players and coaches across the Pacific who helped shape his journey. "I thank all the players in Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, and the Pacific who we are here to represent," he said. "I thank all the players and the coaches who helped me, and more importantly, all the players who were here, who had been chasing me all around, and they made me the player that I was."

Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili, New Zealand’s first Pasifika woman rugby captain, honoured those who paved the way for Pasifika women in rugby. "My success has been made possible by those who have come before us," she said, acknowledging the important role of those who broke barriers and laid the foundation for future generations.

George Smith, who represented Australia, reflected on the Pacific players who inspired him, including Viliame Ofahengaue and Toutai Kefu. "These players were inspirations for me," he said, highlighting the value of recognizing the contributions of Pasifika athletes across the rugby world.

Building the Future of Pasifika Rugby

La’auli Sir Michael Jones, chairman of the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame, emphasized the Hall of Fame's ongoing commitment to honouring the legacy of Pasifika rugby players and advocating for increased recognition of Pasifika talent in the sport. "We will continue to push for better recognition of Pasifika players and advocate for Pasifika representation in decision-making positions within rugby unions across the globe," he said.

The evening was a testament to the enduring power of Pasifika athletes in rugby, showcasing the strength, resilience, and excellence of those who have gone before and those who continue to inspire. As the ceremony came to a close, the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame reaffirmed its dedication to uplifting Pasifika players and ensuring that their legacy continues to shine for generations to come.

This remarkable evening not only celebrated the incredible achievements of Pasifika rugby legends but also paved the way for the next generation of players to make their mark on the world stage. It was a night of pride, celebration, and inspiration for the future of Pasifika rugby.