Penina Pasifika entered their final match against the defending Super W champions, the NSW Waratahs, with a clear mindset: this was their test match. Facing a formidable Waratahs squad filled with Wallaroo players, the challenge was significant—but the team was eager to rise to the occasion.
The energy within the group was undeniable. Every player wanted to take the field, and credit goes to the Waratahs coaching staff for allowing Penina to field their remaining fit 29 players. Co-captain Cathy Leuta was rested as a precaution, reflecting the team’s commitment to player welfare.
Despite limited pre-game preparation due to traffic delays, Penina stayed focused and professional. This led to a dream start as Loketi Mahoni crossed in the corner for her second try of the campaign, capitalising on a well-executed set-piece strike.
In the opening 20 minutes, Penina played with dominance, forcing the Waratahs into uncharacteristic errors and showcasing their season-long growth. However, the Waratahs responded with clinical execution, scoring several well-constructed tries. Some officiating decisions left players and spectators puzzled, but Penina remained resilient.
Trailing 19-5 at halftime, Penina knew the importance of scoring first in the second half. Early field position presented opportunities, but unforced errors allowed the Waratahs to take control. The third quarter was particularly challenging, with Penina starved of possession and defending for extended periods. Their perseverance was rewarded when Angel Schwencke scored her second try of the campaign, converted by Mele Akolo.
Despite the final scoreline of 43-12, Penina stayed competitive and physical throughout the match. The Waratahs acknowledged the unique and spirited challenge Penina brought to the game. Many Penina players described this match as their most enjoyable of the season, citing its intensity and competitiveness.
Head Coach Ramsey Tomokino reflected on the campaign stating, “The growth and development within the squad has been remarkable. Week by week, the team improved, and the final result does not fully capture their progress.”
Beyond the players, the campaign also provided vital development opportunities for staff. Alyce Solaese gained valuable experience under lead Strength & Conditioning Coach Semesi Fonua from Tonga, while Losaline Afeaki from Tonga continued to grow in her role as Assistant Manager. Developing female coaches Cynthia Ta’ala Timaloa and Filoi Eneliko, as well as Cooper Vuna, who is beginning his journey potentially with Lofa XV (Tonga), all gained valuable learnings under the guidance of World Rugby appointed Technical Advisor, Brad Harris.
The team celebrated their journey with an awards ceremony, recognising individual excellence and team spirit:
- Best Forward: Christabelle Onesemo Tuilaepa
- Best Back: Keilamarita Pouri-Lane
- Breakthrough Player: Harmony Vatau
- Players' Player (voted by the team): Nina Foaese
Oceania Rugby extends heartfelt appreciation to PacificAus Sports, Rugby Australia, Blacktown City Council, the Western Raptors, and all key stakeholders for their unwavering support in making this campaign possible.
As the 2025 Penina Pasifika campaign concludes, the team stands proud of their achievements and the foundation they have built for the future. The journey continues, and the lessons learned will drive the next chapter of women’s rugby in the Pacific.
PacificAus Sports is an Australian Government sports diplomacy initiative developing pathways for Pacific teams and athletes to compete in elite competitions and access high performance coaching in Australia and internationally. The program partners with Australian national sports organisations to support a range of Pacific sports, including rugby league, rugby union, netball, football, AFL, cricket and Olympic/Paralympic sports, with funding split evenly between women and men. PacificAus Sports also partners with the Australian Broadcasting Commission (ABC) to promote Pacific sport through ABC Television’s ‘That Pacific Sports Show’ and ABC Radio’s ‘Fresh Off the Field’. The high-performance outcomes of PacificAus Sports are complemented by the Australian Government’s Team Up program, which focuses on sport for development in the Pacific. For more information about PacificAus Sports and its initiatives, visit www.pacificaussports.gov.au and follow PacificAus Sports on Facebook.
