Niue Rugby League: Building bridges from grassroots level to global competition

The growth of Pacific rugby league over the past several years is undeniable, with teams such as Toa Sāmoa, Fiji Bati, and Mate Ma’a Tonga making a significant impact globally.

But one island remains absent from this conversation: Niue.

Niue Rugby League have developed a solid pathway for grassroots players, with a large playing pool in New Zealand, Australia, and Niue itself.

Despite this enthusiasm for the sport at the grassroots level, Niue have yet to participate in elite competitions such as the Rugby League World Cup and the NRL Pacific Championships.

The pressing question is: How can Niue bridge the gap from grassroots development to international competition at the highest level?

Niue have participated in various local competitions with other Pacific nations in New Zealand and Australia.

Building a foundation for success

In recent years, a pathway has been established to allow players from Niue to compete in these teams.

At the heart of Niue’s rugby league aspirations is Toa Motu Rugby League, the governing body dedicated to creating a sustainable pathway for Niuean players on the island.

"We've been working behind the scenes for years to get our structures in place and to develop talent," Dave Ulukita, the newly elected president of Toa Motu Rugby League, says.

Niue players at the 2024 Pacific Youth Cup. Photo/Auckland Niue Rugby League.

"We've got heaps of players who are keen to play for Niue, but we need to have the right systems in place to support them."

Niue's challenge has never been a lack of talent but rather a lack of understanding of international processes.

Phillip Tasmania from Auckland Niue Rugby League further explains, "We were never officially recognised by the International Rugby League due to governance issues in the past.

“But we’re correcting that now, making sure our structures meet international standards."

Tasmania says that Niue had previously faced challenges in understanding the administrative processes required for international participation.

"We had done shortcuts in the paperwork. We were great at putting cones out and running games, but the governance structures weren't there.

Rugby League programmes in Niue have brought together youngsters eager to work on their skills. Photo/Toa Motu Rugby League.

“That was a wake-up call. We needed a legitimate, recognised (governing) body. We’re making sure this never happens again.”

Pathways through New Zealand and Australia

One of the most significant developments in recent years has been the strengthening of connections between Niuean rugby league organisations in New Zealand and Australia.

With large Niue communities in both countries, these tournaments have showcased the impressive talent of the future.

"We've had players come from Auckland, Brisbane, and even Niue itself to fill teams at junior levels," Tasmania says.

"The goal is to have a good squad able to compete internationally when the time comes."

Programmes such as the Pasifika Youth Cup (PYC) have also played a vital role in exposing Niuean talent.

Players hoisting Niue flags at the Queensland Pacific Island Cultural Carnival. Photo/Queensland Niue Rugby League.

"Since 2021, we've taken boys from Niue High School to compete at PYC," Ulukita says.

"The exposure they gain there is invaluable. Some have gone on to play in New Zealand club systems, and that's exactly what we need—players going through a professional pathway."

Mana Pasifika: A gateway to the NRL?

A potential game-changer for Niue is the proposed Mana Pasifika NRL franchise in Auckland.

The club would represent Pacific and Māori communities in professional rugby league and could serve as a crucial stepping stone for smaller nations, such as Niue, to gain exposure.

"If Mana Pasifika becomes a reality, it would be an excellent platform for Niuean players to play at a high level," Tasmania says.

"We have the talent, and this would give our boys a direct pathway to professional rugby league."

Players during a jersey presentation. Photo/Auckland Niue Rugby League.

The Mana Pasifika bid has received support from prominent figures, including Fred Ah Kuoi and Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, with Eden Park suggested as a potential home base.

If successful, it could become a centre for Pacific rugby league development, offering Niuean players the chance to train and play alongside some of the region's elite.

Bringing the Niuean Rugby League community together

Despite recent advancements, unity remains a hurdle.

"We have several Niue rugby league organisations in New Zealand, Australia, and in Niue itself," Ulukita says.

"If we can all work together under one banner, then our prospects for putting a competitive international team on the field are much better.

"We've had so many young players sign up, and when we asked them about their future goals in rugby league, a lot of them said they wanted to represent Niue on the bigger stage.

"The passion is there. We just need to ensure the right systems are in place to make it happen."

Tasmania agrees. "We've witnessed what unity has achieved for Tonga and Samoa to turn into powerhouses. We need to follow that model.

“If we can create a competitive domestic competition here in Niue and also connect that with our offshore counterparts, there's no reason why we can't be taking part in the Pacific Championships in the not-too-distant future."

"If we get the right people in the right positions, people with the same goals, same energy, same vibes, and we can all see the bigger picture, then yes, it’s definitely possible. We just need to get the ball rolling."