Photo: Instagram /pasifikahof
The Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame (PRHF) will induct seven former Pasifika rugby stars at the Eden Park Centre next month.
It is the second induction since its inception 12 months ago.
Former Black Ferns halfback Monique Hirovanaa, the first woman of Pacific heritage to win the World Rugby Player of the Year Award in 2002, is among the inductees.
The 59-year-old played for New Zealand and Auckland.
She was a member of the team that won the 1998 and 2022 Women's Rugby World Cup titles.
Others are the late Fesolai Va'aiga Tuigamala, former Wallaby Viliami Ofahengaue, also known as Willie O, former Tongan international Malakai Alatini, former All Blacks La'auli Savae Sir Michael Jones and Fa'alogo Tana Umaga, plus former Flying Fijian Seremaia Bai.
The late Tuigamala represented both the All Blacks and Manu Samoa.
Ofahengaue was a powerhouse player for the Wallabies and his exploits in the green and gold jersey paved the way for more of his Tongan countrymen to follow suit.
Alatini, who is also of Tongan origin, has been a key member of the Auckland rugby community, where he played and also coached.
His son Pita was an All Black, while older son Sam represented the 'Ikale Tahi.
The brothers went head-to-head in the June 2000 Test between the two teams.
Sir Michael and Tana are both former All Blacks who have given back to Pasifika rugby through Manu Samoa, recognising their heritage.
Sir Michael is the current chairman of the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame, while Tana Umaga is head coach of the Moana Pasifika franchise club.
Bai, of Fiji, is a former Flying Fijian and also played club rugby in the United Kingdom before retiring.
He is a current Flying Fijian assistant coach.
Sir Michael said the Pasfika Rugby Hall of Fame has an ongoing commitment to honouring the legacy of Pasifika rugby players and advocating for increased recognition of Pasifika talent in the sport.
"We will continue to push for better recognition of Pasifika players and advocate for Pasifika representation in decision-making positions within rugby unions across the globe," he said.
He said the awards evening is a testament to the enduring power of Pasifika athletes in rugby, showcasing the strength, resilience, and excellence of those who have gone before and those who continue to inspire.
"This remarkable evening not only celebrates the incredible achievements of Pasifika rugby legends but also paves the way for the next generation of players to make their mark on the world stage," Sir Michael said at last year's event.
"It was a night of pride, celebration, and inspiration for the future of Pasifika rugby."
The inductees have been recognised by the selection panel, based on their contribution to Pasifika rugby.
Inaugral inductees included the late Jonah Lomu (Tonga/New Zealand), the late Pita Fatialofa (Samoa), Waisale Serevi (Fiji), George Smith (Tonga/Australia), Muliagatele Brian Lima (Samoa), Seiuli Fiao'o Fa'amausili (Samoa/New Zealand), and Tuifa'asisina Sir Bryan Williams (Samoa/New Zealand).
Meanwhile, Fiji Drua co-captain, Tevita Ikanivere and Manusina Samoa skipper Masuisuimatama'ali'i Tauasa-Pauaraisa have been named Pasiifka Hall of Fame Players of the Year for 2024.
The duo will also be receiving their awards at the awards night in Auckland on 10 April.
The Hall of Fame selection committee said Ikanivere will receive the Jonah Lomu Men's Player of the Year award for his powerful performances, both for the Drua at the Super Rugby Pacific competition and the Flying Fijians, last year.
Masuisuimatama'ali'i will receive the Seiuli Fiao'o Fa'amausili Female Player of the Year award for her leadership of Samoa national teams in multiple codes.
