Ardie Savea, left, and Ruby Tui will receive top honours at the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame’s Most Influential Players in the World.

In a landmark event celebrating the achievements of Pasifika rugby players, the inaugural Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame Awards will recognize outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport.

Leading the honorees are two current rugby stars of Samoan origin:

• Ardie Savea: The All Blacks loose forward, currently playing in Japan, will be awarded the Jonah Lomu Award for the most influential Pasifika male player in the world. Savea, a nine-time Grand Slam title winner, was also named World Rugby Men’s 15s Player of the Year in 2023.
• Ruby Tui: The Black Ferns wing will receive the ‘Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili Award for the most influential Pasifika women player in the world. Tui’s exceptional skills and dedication to the sport have earned her widespread recognition.

Additionally, the ‘Waisale Serevi Pasifika Breakthrough Player of the Year’ award will be presented to:

• Mark Telea: The All Black and Auckland Blues winger, of Samoan descent, is recognized for his outstanding performance and impact on the game. Telea was also named ‘World Rugby Men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2023’.
• Manae Feleu: Representing the French women’s rugby team, Feleu, originally from Wallis and Futuna, has showcased remarkable talent and potential.

Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame chairman La’auli Sir Michael Jones expressed pride in honoring these exceptional athletes, underscoring their influence on Pasifika rugby and their embodiment of its values.

The awards ceremony will coincide with the induction of seven Pasifika rugby stars into the Hall of Fame, including the late Jonah Lomu, Waisale Serevi, and Seiuli Fiao’o Fa’amausili, among others.

This recognition highlights their enduring legacy and significant contributions to the sport.

Established in 2023, the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame aims to celebrate the achievements of Pasifika rugby players, coaches, and contributors, while promoting Pasifika culture and providing opportunities for its people.

The week-long program will commence with a traditional welcoming ceremony and the official opening of the Pasifika Rugby Festival week at the Fale Pasifika, University of Auckland, setting the stage for a memorable celebration of Pasifika rugby excellence.