By Eleanor Gee

Tonga’s Touch Rugby men’s and women’s teams have been busy fundraising to be able to represent Tonga at the Pacific Games next month, and are planning their next fundraiser on July 1 - only 12 days before the date they aim to depart.

They were presented with donations yesterday, 19 June, from Robert Sullivan, owner of the Billfish Bar & Restaurant, and from Hon. Fahina-E-Paepae Filipe, daughter of Hon. Frederica Tuita Filipe.

Team Manager, Savelina Pale told Matangi Tonga the reason they are fundraising is because they were not eligible for government funding for the games because they did not meet the criteria to be ranked in the top five teams in the Pacific.

She said it is a challenge for the teams as there is no regional touch rugby tournament for the Pacific and the only chance they have to play against other nations in the Pacific is at the games.

“At the last Pacific Games, our women’s team was placed fifth, the men’s team placed fifth, and our mixed team was fourth - so, we thought we were eligible for being in the top five ranking”.

Savelina said after they were declined funding, they decided to try and enter the teams in the games and then fundraise as they “saw the team is really good and we’ve been training since January”.

“So, we wrote a letter to the President of TASANOC and the board and we were approved to take part in the games. So here we are fundraising.”

“Our next fundraiser is here at Billfish on 1 July. We’ve also asked businesses for donations,” (tel. 7716131) and Savelina said they have faith they will reach their goal.

“The majority of fundraising now is for the airfares. We are very hopeful and I think we will definitely go.”

The team plan to depart Tonga on 13 July as competition starts on 15 July.

Tonga Women’s Touch Rugby Team:

1. Manatu Takitaki
2. Folola Hufanga
3. Manusiu Latavao
4. Katiola Patolo
5. Na’a Nanivi Kaufusi
6. Leititia Salavia Vaka

Head Coach – Fehoko Tu’ivai

Tonga Men’s Touch Rugby Team:

1. Soane Olikoni Ta’ai
2. Peni Siliako ‘Onesi
3. Semisi Latu Niu
4. Apolosi Lauhingoa
5. Tae Tupou
6. Alani Misieli Taumoepeau
7. Siosiua Aiveni Likiliki
8. Manase Ponove
9. Levi Fakatava
10. Frederick Niu
11. Siaosi Taimani Huihui
12. Taniela Pongi
13. Seluipepei Tu’inauvai
14. Aisea ‘Alatini
15. Sosaia Uluenga (Player/Official)

Head Coach – Sione Vaisuai

Team Manager – Savelina Pale