From rugby roots to an Ironblacks leader: Siono on growing American football in Aotearoa

American football may still be finding its place in Aotearoa New Zealand but for Harry Siono, it is already changing lives.

The former New Zealand representative and current head coach of the Ironblacks says the sport is growing quickly especially among young Pacific athletes looking for new pathways in elite sport.

Siono, who has represented Aotearoa internationally and now leads the national programme, says the focus is not only on winning but building opportunity.

“We’re hoping to build a relationship, you know, with Australia and hopefully put our talents out there and that way we can attract other countries to sort of play us,” he said.

At present, he says Australia and New Zealand remain the main international opponents. But that could change as the sport develops.

Siono grew up playing rugby before switching codes and says American football offered something different - structure, physicality and space for bigger athletes.

Ironblacks head coach Harry Siono says American football is creating new pathways for young Pacific athletes in Aotearoa.

“I chose football purely, it’s a very physical sport. And if you're a Pacific Islander, physical sports is kind of part of our DNA,” he told Tuilagi.

“You're out there searching for whatever that can make you tick really physically.”

He said the sport fills a gap for players who may not fit traditional rugby or league pathways.

New Zealand will host Australia in Auckland this weekend. Photo/NZAFF

“We just offer another avenue for kids to play professional sport.”

Siono’s playing career included two international appearances for New Zealand, in 2005 and 2016. These experiences, he says, remain deeply meaningful.

“The pride of wearing the jersey, representing New Zealand on its own, that's huge,” he said. “It means everything to my family.”

Now in coaching, Siono is focused on shaping culture and creating clear development pathways through the Ironblacks system.

“That’s a huge part of what we do,” he said of team culture. “If you don't have that culture behind you off the field as well, you struggle to pinpoint what you're doing on the field.”

His vision includes stronger coaching systems, overseas opportunities and education pathways for young players.

The New Zealand Ironblacks prepare for their upcoming international clash against Australia in Auckland. Photo/NZAFF

“Getting our kids overseas is one,” he said. “Making sure that there's pathways for our under-16s, under-18s to gain those college scholarships.”

He says flag football is helping grow participation with the backing of the NFL and school programmes introducing the game to new players.

“The easiest way to sort of learn is playing flag football,” he said. “That’s kind of growing rapidly over here now.”

The Ironblacks will take on Australia’s Outback team in Auckland this coming weekend with Siono saying preparation has been intense across several training camps.

“We’ve been training hard over the last couple of months,” he said. “We’re hoping to put on a good show for everyone to come out and watch.”

Beyond the game, he says the sport still faces challenges, particularly funding, with many players self-funding their involvement.

Photo/NZAFF

“It’s a very, it’s a minority sport here. So it's a user pay sport,” he said.

The New Zealand American Football Federation (NZAFF) says that reality is shaping the current generation of players, many of whom are self-funded as they work to represent Aotearoa on the international stage.

“This sport is self-funded, and the journey to international football isn't easy,” NZAFF said in a statement.

“Each athlete has worked tirelessly not only to make the team but also to raise the funds needed to represent their country with pride.

"Their commitment, sacrifice, and drive are a true testament to the passion behind American football in Aotearoa.”

Shernice Henry of NZAFF says the current programme is laying the groundwork for future generations of players.

Watch Harry Siono's full interview with Tuilagi William Leolahi below.

“This is the first of many. It's an exciting time,” Henry said. “These young men are laying the foundation for future international campaigns and showing what's possible when our community comes together.”

For Siono, the Ironblacks’ journey is about more than one match against Australia.

“Super proud of the achievement,” he said. “There’s plenty still to come.”

The New Zealand Ironbacks vs Australia game will take place on Saturday 11 July at the Trusts Stadium in Auckland. Kickoff is at 3pm (NZ time). For more details, click here.