AFL Tonga

Australia Day 2009: Image Courtesy of Matangi TongaThe first ever Australia Day Challenge has taken place in the Kingdom of Tonga with Tongatapu defeating Vava'u in a tough match at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa.

Australia Day 2009: HE Dr Bruce Hunt, Austalian High Commissioner Image Courtesy of Matangi TongaThe Australian High Commissioner H.E. Dr. Bruce Hunt watched the entire game enthusically along with a crowd of about 100. He greeted the players beforehand with a handshake and afterwards as well posing for photos with the Vava'u team. His speech was also excellent recalling 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 ToAustralia Day 2009: Image Courtesy of Matangi Tongangatapu 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 the game in the Kingdom and the half time entertainment of a game between our skipjacks (primary school kids) was also very good and there were some small kids with lots of ability that I observed.

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

Well done to Sione and all the team in Tonga!