In a recent interview with ABC Radio Australia, former ‘Ikale Tahi player Josh Taumalolo revealed the relaunch of the Tonga Rugby Union’s High Performance Academy. Initially launched with much fanfare, the academy is not a new initiative but rather a revived program designed to nurture Tonga’s best rugby talent.
The academy aims to provide a clear pathway for young players to represent their country at the highest levels of the sport, a pressing need as Tonga looks to develop more island-based talent.
Taumalolo pointed out that financial constraints and a lack of human resources have long delayed the academy’s revival. “This isn’t a new initiative, it was on before but on and off. I hope we can sustain it now because it’s a long-term program,” he said.
The program is especially important for bridging the gap for young players who often drop out of the rugby system after leaving school. Taumalolo said that the island’s best talent has “disappeared” over the past eight years, many seeking work in New Zealand and Australia due to the lack of rugby opportunities in Tonga.
Despite limited funding, the academy has started training sessions, with hopes that support from World Rugby and PacificAus Sports will arrive next year. In the meantime, Taumalolo remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on developing local talent.
Reflecting on his own career, Taumalolo said he was happy to be helping young Tongan athletes. “I started from nothing, and I want these young stars to understand that if they stay focused, they can get there too,” he said.
Source: ABC Radio Australia