Jason Taumalolo Cup Tournament 2019 kicks off July 27 [1]
Thursday, July 25, 2019 - 18:55. Updated on Friday, July 26, 2019 - 09:15.
Tonga’s National Rugby League annual tournament, the Jason Taumalolo Cup, was officially launched in an event on July 24, with kick-off on Saturday, July 27.
CEO for Ministry of Internal Affairs CEO, Dr Fotu Fisi’iahi in an address said, rugby league started in 1988 with six foundation clubs, and now there were more than 20 senior teams competing nationally as well as development in the youth grades.
“Although Rugby Union is our National Game, the growth of Rugby League has been outstanding and well supported by our people.”
During this event, Rugby League club representatives were given $500 pa'anga funding to assist with the club’s and player’s needs for the season.
The game has grown in popularity since the successful performance of the Mate Ma’a Tonga National Rugby League Team at the 2017 Rugby League World Cup held in New Zealand.
Since 2018 the annual competition has been named after Rugby League star Jason Taumalolo.
This year, 30 clubs will take part in the tournament including two Men’s divisions, Women’s, and Junior’s U17 and U15 teams.
The first round kicks off on Saturday, July 27 at two venues where five games will be played at Hala'ano and another five at ‘Api Fo’ou College.
Cash prizes
Prizes are up for grabs for the winning clubs including $6,000 for first place and $3000 for second place. The plate winner will receive $1,500 and second place $700, and the shield winner will receive $500 and second place $300.
Five women’s league teams will also take part with the first round of games to start on August 10. The tournament runs from July 27 ending to September 21.
Fees will be charged to watch the games which will contribute to operational bills including hire of DJ sound system, tents, chairs, tables, portaloos, referees etc. It will cost $5 for adults, $2 for students, (under 12 are free) and $5 for parking.
Senior Men’s Division 1 teams include:
- Mu’a
- Houma
- Ha’alalo
- Liahona
- Vaini
- Toloa
- Houma
- Sila Pelu Ua
- Ha’ateiho
- ‘Eua
- Kolomu’a
- Lapaha
- Ha’akame
- Fasi Ma’ufanga
- Fuekafa
Senior Men’s Division 2 teams include:
- Kolomotu’a
- ‘Utulau
- Nakolo
- Vaini
- Nukunuku
- Matahau
- Kolonga
- Toa ko Ma’afu
- Toloa
- Fatumu
- Marist
- Havelu
- Vaotu’u
Women’s teams:
- Vahe City
- Vahe Loto
- Vahe Wests
- Vahe Easts
- ‘Eua