World Footy News

In January the Kingdom of Tonga's first ever Australia Day Challenge took place with Tongatapu (the largest island) defeating Vava'u in a tough match at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa, the nation's capital. The following is based on information courtesy of Michael O'Shannassy.

The Australian High Commissioner H.E. Dr. Bruce Hunt watched the entire game enthusiastically along with a crowd of about 100. He greeted the players beforehand with a handshake and afterwards as well as posing for photos with the Vava'u team. His speech recalled how Aussie Rules was founded 151 years ago and it was between two teams just like today. He also said he hoped it would be the start of many more games, especially on Australia Day.

The game was played in tough conditions - the ground was hard, grass uncut and a very strong wind blowing to one end. In the end Tongatapu won out (61-55), however Vava'u probably kicked themselves out of the game in the last quarter with many missed opportunities. The game was played in great spirit with plenty of the famous "Tongan Sidestep" to keep the players honest.

The game was a great advertisement for footy in the Kingdom and the half time entertainment of a game between the skipjacks (primary school kids) was also very good and there were some small kids with lots of ability. The players were drawn from eight local primary schools.

An additional $477 TOP (about AUD$333) was raised for the Pau Mafua Trust through the raffle of a signed Richmond football won by an Australian volunteer.

The hope is that a team from the Fitzroy Reds will tour in October.