Nesian Footy
Nesian Footy is a podcast from ABC Radio Australia that shares Pacific Islander stories from both on and off the rugby league and rugby union field. It spotlights the players, families and communities that shape the sport across the Pacific region and the diaspora. Episodes mix interviews, commentary and cultural discussion around the games fans follow closely. The show celebrates the deep connection between Pacific Island communities and rugby codes.
Episodes
Daniel Tupou leaves behind an incredible legacy
If you thought the NRL season was over, think again — there’s still plenty happening in the world of footy!Tinirau Arona gives his flowers to Daniel Tupou, who, after reaching his 300th game earlier this year, is now ready to hang up the boots as a four-time premiership winner. After giving so much to the game, Tupou leaves behind an impressive legacy as the Roosters’ second-most
The Roosters take all the Premiership glory
The final weeks of footy have had it all, highs, lows, shocks, surprises, heartbreak, and even a new-found love for the game. And that’s exactly why we keep coming back to it every single year.Tinirau takes Sam through a hectic night of not just footy, but the celebrations around it: from pre-game tributes honouring the greats who helped shape the game, to the post-game celebrati
Droughts and dynasties: NRL and NRLW Grand Finals are here
Knights or Roosters?There’s plenty on the line for both sides, with each team bringing their own motivation into the Grand Final. Will the Roosters add another win to their history, or will Newcastle finally break a 25-year drought? Plenty of questions and not enough answers. That is, until Sunday night, when Sam and Tinirau are expecting a tight scoreline. Fiji Drua’s newly appo
"If not me, who else?" Tiana Penitani-Gray on Pasifika representation in media
Tiana Penitani-Gray is one of the trailblazers and most recognisable faces of the NRLW. But her impact extends well beyond the footy field, with Tiana carving out a name for herself in the media. Never expecting a career in media, her willingness to say yes to new opportunities has seen her become the face of That Pacific Sports Show and a familiar voice on the footy sidelines. N
NRL & NRLW: two Prelims, four teams, two Grand Final spots
We’re heading into the second-last week of the 2026 NRL season, and the waters are looking murky with no clear winner in sight. Tinirau Arona unpacks a massive weekend of finals footy, looking at the vulnerabilities on display and which teams have what it takes to maintain the pressure and intensity for a full 80 minutes this weekend.Tiana Penitani-Grey steps in for Sam Wykes to
Frank-Paul Nu'uausala reflects on how footy and brotherhood saved him
Born and raised in South Auckland, Frank-Paul Nu'uausala came into life with a tough mentality. Mostly keeping to himself, trusting only a select few, and determined to improve his situation. When he arrived in Australia as a young adult, it was a culture shock. From not knowing how cafes worked to sticking out like a sore thumb in the Northern Suburbs with baggy pants and no shi
NRL, NRLW & Pacific Nations Cup: Finals, Finals, Finals
NRL Finals Week 2 is here, and the anticipation isn’t wearing off for Tinirau or Sam. With two more teams set to either say goodbye to their season or book their spot in the Preliminary Finals, the stakes are getting higher and waiting on the other side are opponents ready to fight for their place in the Grand Final.Sam and Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani look ahead to the Pacific Nation
Vea Mafile’o helped bring Jonah Lomu’s story to life
The release of the Jonah Lomu documentary has given long-time rugby fans a chance to remember one of the greats of rugby union, while introducing a new generation of fans and aspiring athletes to the legacy he left behind.But behind the rugby icon is a much deeper story of culture, family and personal life. While the film celebrates the beautiful game that made Lomu a household n
NRL Finals Week 1 begins
The boys are buzzing after seeing the advanced screening of the Jonah Lomu documentary last night and it’s pretty much all they can talk about.That is, until Tinirau remembers what’s waiting for NRL fans this weekend… and geez, is he excited! For the first time in years, the opening week of the finals feels completely wide open, with the teams so evenly matched that predicting wh
Joseph Paulo looks back on the Sharks’ 2016 Premiership
Brotherhood means something different when it costs you something; especially when it costs you a spot in a Grand Final.Two players, both injured, supported each other through rehab, only to find themselves competing for the same spot in the Sharks’ 2016 Grand Final side. One of those players was Joseph Paulo. When his teammate got the nod, Joseph wasn’t bitter, he was proud that
The importance of having a cultural mentor in rugby
Discussion within the Broncos camp has reignited conversations around the need for cultural mentors to support Pacific players, something Sam and Tinirau say has been a long-running discussion, particularly when you look at the huge gap between the number of Pasifika players and Pasifika coaching staff.Over in Fiji, Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani talks about the importance of looking af
Mina Funa is the mother behind two rugby dreams
Mina Funa raised two future rugby stars on her own, Jezaiah Funa, who recently made his NRL debut for the Parramatta Eels, and Leviticus Funa, who now plays rugby union in France. For the single mum of two, opportunities weren’t given, they were earned. Often the only mum on the sidelines, she made sure her sons knew they had her support; even when life meant making sacrifices a
Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani trekked through bush to sign Fiji Drua’s latest star
Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani joins us live from Tonga to tell the story of his mission to find Fijian Drua player Kavekini Boselawa, travelling down windy gravel roads through the Fijian bush to reach his family home - just as Kavekini was preparing to leave for a team in Romania. 🏉Then, Round 29 of the NRL is here, and as the regular season winds down, the ladder is looking very diff
Content creation changed Lima Sopoaga’s life in the best way possible
Media is becoming its own beast in sport, with plenty of people wanting to get involved. But we’re now starting to see players feed back into sports media after hanging up the rugby boots. Last time we had Samoan Cook Islands rugby international Lima Sopoaga on Nesian Footy, he was just getting started in media. Now, almost a year later, taking that leap of faith and pushing hims
Josh Papali'i and Tui Kamikamica call their time in NRL
The NRL loses two greats of the game this week, with Raiders 300-gamer Josh Papali'i announcing his retirement, while after 10 years with the Storm, Tui Kamikamica has announced his medical retirement following a stroke in March. Two Pacific icons that many of us grew up watching, and Sam and Tinirau share their heartbreak over the news.Kiana Takirangi swoops in to save the day a
What happens when your dream burns you out? Tiaan Tauakipulu opens up
Usually, we hear from rugby players who fall in love with the sport and want to play professionally for as long as they can. Former Samoan Tongan rugby player Tiaan Tauakipulu’s story is a little different. He and his family worked hard to give him the chance to pursue his dream, and it wasn’t long before he landed a spot playing playing Super Rugby. But between injuries and the
Big signings, big culture, and big wins
Bringing you the Pacific Islander stories on and off the PNG Chiefs have settled into their number six, adding Brian To’o to their roster, also known as 006. But who will be their 007? Tinirau Arona has a warning for clubs: lock down your best players before they hit free agency, because the Chiefs will be lurking.The All Blacks and Sharks put culture first, both on and off the f
Black Fern Shakira Baker-Fidow takes on a new challenge in NRLW
From Olympic silver and Commonwealth gold to the NRLW, Shakira Baker-Fidow has experienced the evolution of women’s rugby firsthand. The former Black Fern joins us to reflect on her journey from growing up in the small Aotearoa New Zealand town of Greytown to representing her country on the world stage, proudly representing her Samoan and Māori heritage, and the sporting family t
2026 NRL Indigenous Round: remembering the greats of the game
Indigenous Round takes centre stage in Round 23 of the NRL, with Sam Wykes and Tinirau Arona reflecting on the Indigenous players who inspired them growing up. Tinirau also relives what it was like to line up against some of the game's greats and breaks down the Cowboys' bounce-back win, before asking whether this weekend's sold-out Panthers v Warriors clash could be a preview of
How Tongan rugby league international Etu Uaisele built community through food
For many Pacific Islanders living overseas, home is often found in the simplest of things. For former 2000s Tongan rugby league and Super League player Etu Uaisele, it was a spit-roasted pig that brought a taste of home. Using classic Tongan ingenuity, Uaisele recreated a style of cooking usually only seen back in the islands, building a makeshift spit from a wooden pallet and ha
Reality checks: Cowboys learn a hard lesson, Samoa rugby faces its own
Round 22 of the NRL is underway, and it's one Cowboys fans will want to forget after the Roosters piled on more than 80 points for the first time since 1935. Tinirau Arona breaks down the historic result and what it means for both clubs moving forward.Then, Manu Samoa forwards coach Pek Cowan reflects on his journey as a Cook Islander in the Samoan coaching set-up and challenges
Tony Puletua made professional rugby league feel possible for Pasifika players
Former NRL and Super League forward Tony Puletua was one of only a handful of Pasifika players competing professionally during his era. As one of just three Pasifika players in Penrith's 2003 premiership-winning side, Puletua became a trailblazer whose journey inspired families within his church community to pursue the same pathways for their children.On Nesian Footy, Puletua ref
Fiji is hosting its first-ever Super Rugby Women's grand final
History will be made this weekend as Fiji hosts the Super Rugby Women's grand final for the first time, with the Fijian Drua taking on the NSW Waratahs, and Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani reports that Fiji is buzzing with excitement.Following the news that Adam Doueihi will sit out this weekend's match, Sam Wykes and Tinirau Arona reflect on their own experiences as players and coaches,
How Joey Grima is helping build rugby league in Papua New Guinea
Joey Grima is the special man behind the PNG Hunters, PNG Kumuls, and now the PNG Chiefs pathways program, and he has a vision that long extends past his time at the NRL, developing methods to not only build success for PNG men and women wanting to succeed in league but build players for life outside of footy, as well as inspire coaching staff to continue building PNG pathways ge
Jarome Luai finds "peace", while Flying Fijians search for form
Jarome Luai's signing with the Parramatta Eels has dominated rugby league headlines this week, leaving many wondering what conversations took place behind closed doors. Amid the speculation, Luai stated in his post-match press conference that he's at "peace" with his decision. Tinirau Arona unpack the news surrounding it all.Wests Tigers NRLW captain Sala Togatuki returns to Nesi
NRLW and Fetu Samoa star Lindsay Tui doesn't shy away from competition
Lindsay Tui made a rapid rise to the NRLW, with hard work and a competitive mindset driving her success. Sam and Tinirau saw it up close and personal in 2024 when she scored the final try against Tonga to cement Fetu Samoa's place at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. Tui joins Nesian Footy to reflect on growing up in a competitive family, representing Samoa, and what's driving her
Tigers' crunch time as post-Origin normality resumes in NRL
The Blues have wrapped up the Origin series, meaning primary attention can now return to the NRL, as some teams face crunch games in Round 19. The Wests Tigers' hopes of breaking their lengthy Finals drought is getting urgent, just as reports surface that star half Jarome Luai has been invited to explore his options for the 2027 season, before joining the PNG Chiefs in 2028.Also
Ben Volavola still has plenty of rugby in front of him
Playmaker Ben Volavola joins the Fijian Drua next season after a year with the Reds. The well-travelled Fijian has played 38 Tests and tested a broad range of rugby experiences. The 35-year-old is very well equipped to pass on invaluable wisdom to the rapidly develop Super Rugby Pacific franchise.On rugby, it was the very first round of the Nation's Championship over the weekend
Huge global launch of Nation's Championship this weekend
The hotly anticipated Nations Championship kicks off this weekend, headlined by Fiji's huge contest against Wales in Cardiff. Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani helps preview the Fijian's big game.The NRLW kicked off last night as Newcastle launched their season in style with a win over the Sharks, which we review with Sala Togatuki.We preview Round 18 in the NRL, plus the final regular sea
Josh Aloiai is exactly where he wants to be
Despite being medically retired at just 30, former Toa Samoa Test representative Josh Aloiai isn't slowing down. The ex-NRL forward leads by example, chasing fulfilling post-career passions and engaging community with meaningful endeavours that will continue to inspire. Aloiai has never been shy to stick up for his beliefs.Also on today's show, we review Round 17 in the NRL, set
Will Warriors end Phins' huge win streak?
The Dolphins host the Warriors in one of the most hyped regular season matches of 2026 so far. The Phins last tasted defeat in their Round 8 clash with the Wahs, in what looms as an epic rematch to headline Round 17 in the NRL.We unpack the big League talking points with our regular guest Sala Togatuki, plus check in with our rugby correspondent Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani, as some b
The Tour inspiring Tonga's next gen NRL stars
Tonga's most promising under-16s rugby league talent is currently touring down under, gaining valuable exposure to travel, elite pathways and what it takes to make it as a professional player. But those are just some of the benefits on offer for these impressionable young boys and girls, as we find out by touching base with NRL Tonga GM Tavake Tangupo and u16's Girls captain Atel
Canes and Chiefs chase history in Super Rugby decider
Two star-studded Kiwi sides will contest the Super Rugby Pacific Final in Wellington this Saturday, with plenty of history and legacy on the line for both franchises. The Hurricanes earned hosting rights after their incredible campaign, while the Chiefs will be hoping it's fourth time lucky, having lost the competition's last three deciders.It's been a huge week for Queensland, w
James Segeyaro is focusing on love and gratitude
James Segeyaro played 155 NRL games, between 2011 and 2022, along with six Tests for the Kumuls. At stages during his career, the dummy half was an unstoppable force around the ruck. But, as the now-35-year-old reveals, the PNG star's journey to adulthood and the professional ranks was anything but normal, which forced him to confront heavy internal conflict and bitter resentment
Making sense of Blues' stunning Origin snub
New South Wales have left out Rugby League's hottest edge forward in one of the most Origin shocking selection calls of recent memory. The omission of Haumole Olakau'atu It shapes as a major story as the Blues continue preparation for their chance to seal the series in Melbourne for game two. The Nesian footy guys have their say on all the Origin selection talking points.Also, fo
Hype builds for the NRL's rivalry round
There are some huge derbies and mouth-watering contests in the NRL this weekend, headlined by a grudge match involving the Tigers and Panthers, where a number of ex-Penrith premiership stars will take on their old side. Guest Sala Togatuki will help preview the huge Sunday afternoon contest.
Moana Pasifika's fitting Super Rugby send-off
With the short-term future of Moana Pasifika firmly up in the air, the side produced an heroic final act against the Playoffs-bound Brumbies in Canberra. The ABC Canberra team caught up with Moana's key figures before and after the match, soaking up all kinds emotions. We hear from coach Tana Umaga, captain Miracle Fai'ilagi and play-maker Patrick Pellegrini off the back of his t
Blues claim Origin wins on back-to-back nights
It's been a big week for NSW Rugby League fans, enjoying the biggest comeback in Origin history on Wednesday night in the Men's opener, before watching the Women's side make it a clean sweep over Queensland 24 hours later.We chat all things League on Nesian footy, from Origin to Round 13 this weekend, assisted by our regular guest Sala Togatuki, who helped break down the Blues' 1
The special Genia touch lifting PNG's rugby scene
Former Wallaby Will Genia's sister, Lorraine, represents an on-going push to secure the future of rugby union in the League-mad Papua New Guinea. The former media talent in PNG is also an advocate for Women's sport and unpacks some of the on-going challenges in Papua New Guinean rugby and what great work is going on behind the scenes.Also, it's Origin week, with the hotly anticip
Isaiya Katoa's all-class effort in Phins win
Tonga star Isaiyah Katoa continues his rapid maturity, orchestrating the Dolphins to an impressive win in Canberra to kick off Round 12 in the NRL. His comments post-game helped illustrate what a fantastic leader he's becoming as well.Also on this edition of Nesian Footy, the boys preview the remaining NRL matches this weekend, plus unpack some of the key Origin selection talking
Origin teams, Magic Round, Greg Marzhew's journey
What a week in rugby league! It was Magic Round rolled right into the release of the Origin I teams being released. And to top it all off, our special guest for today's edition of the show was none other than in-form Knights winger Greg Marzhew.Origin coaches Laurie Daley and Billy Slater made huge calls as they call their squads into camp ahead of next week's Men's Origin opener
Blues retain, Magic Round preview, the Drua's moment
What an epic Women's Origin game two was! The Blues have retained the Women's crown and we re-live all the action with Sala Togatuki.With T up in Brisbane for Magic Round, Will Hopoate is Sammy's co-host for today, with the pair previewing all the upcoming action at Lang Park.And it's now or never for the Fijian Drua who are looking to keep their Playoff hopes alive as they host
Marzhew's fab five, here come the Crusaders, Nate Peteru's impact
Samoan star Greg Marzhew's five-try haul headlined Round 10's NRL action in what was a big win for Newcastle.Plus, here come the Crusaders! They enjoyed an impressive statement win over the Blues to bring them right back into Playoff contention.And this week's guest is former NRL and Super League player Nate Peteru, who is leading by example for former Pasifika players transition
Phins surge, NRL R10 tips, RA's pathways issue
Round 10 in the NRL kicked off with Redcliffe pummelling the broken Bulldogs and there's plenty more intriguing footy to follow, headlined by some eye-catching matchups on Saturday which we preview.It's Round 13 in Super Rugby Pacific too, as the end of the regular season draws closer to an end. The Drua have a timely bye as they make their push for Playoffs after strong recent f
The group trying to buy Moana Pasifika state their case
Today's show is headlined by the Kanaloa Group, who are pitching to salvage Moana Pasifika's status in the Super Rugby Pacific.The boys also break down what was another huge round in the NRL, plus recap the Drua's third win from their last four starts - keeping their season alive.And we welcome on PNG Orchid Shellie Long for the first time this year, chatting Women's Origin and t
Blues take Origin Opener, PNG's Luai coup, Super R12
The Blues have prevailed in a hard-fought Women's Origin Opener, beating the Maroons 11-6 in Newcastle. Sala Togatuki jumps on to help break down the contest.We also preview Round 9 in the NRL and Round 12 in the Super Rugby Pacific, which is headlined by the Drua hosting the Highlanders in Ba. Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani joins to help preview that clash.Chapters:3:00 - Luai joins th
Luai in PNG, struggling Storm, Super Round, Donny Singe returns
Tigers, Blues and Samoan Test star Jarome Luai was in PNG over the weekend, checking out the Chiefs' facilities, ahead of an upcoming decision around his contract. That's huge! The Storm's stranglehold over the Rabbitohs in Melbourne ends emphatically. That's now six straight losses for Melbourne, so what now?How good was Super Round in Christchurch? But while there was some fant
Super Round, Anzac clashes, Women's Origin
It's a huge weekend of footy ahead, with the NRL's mammoth Anzac Day slate of games, plus Super Round in Christchurch.Sala Togatuki jumps on to unpack the disappointment of missing selection for the Blues in the Women's Origin opener. Plus Nemani Kuridrani Nadolo breaks down the positive energy inside the Fijian Drua camp after their strong win over the Brumbies.Chapters:4:30 - L
Will Genia's best advice, Flanno gone, Drua does it
Big show! Will Genia is our special guest and he offers all kinds of spot on advice to aspiring athletes across the Pacific, as we take a trip down memory lane to his phenominal journey and professional career.It's been a big week in Rugby League, with St George-Illawarra hitting the eject button on the Shane Flanagan era, plus there were some wild Round 7 results.How about the F
Moana Pasifika solutions, NRL R7, Fozball
It's been a huge week of news in rugby and you won't find a better breakdown of the lay of the land in Super Rugby after the latest on Moana Pasifika's ownership deciding to pull the pin at the end of this season. Co-hosts Sam Wykes and Tinirau Arona break it all down, plus come up with some potential solutions with out weekly Fiji correspondent Nemani Kuridrani Nadolo.It's Round
NRL upsets, Drua's win, Penina Pasifika's Ana Ngahe
Tongan young gun Ana Ngahe chronicles her journey to top-line women's rugby, as a brand new fixture took centre stage in the Pacific over the weekend, in what shaped as a 'bitter-sweet' contest for many of the Penina Pasifika players involved. Hear about what it means to be a part of the Penina Pasifika program and where the players hope it gets to.It was also an eventful weekend
Bulldogs boilover, NRL R6, Fijian rugby assessment
We preview the rest of Round 6 in the NRL after the Bulldogs staged an incredible boilover against the previously unbeaten Panthers in what doubled as Nathan Cleary's 200th First Grade appearance.We dissect Sunday's huge game between the Tigers and Knights with NRLW star Sala Togatuki.We review how the Drua is going, plus assess the coaching situation with Fiji's Test side.Plus,
NRL upsets, Drua's tactics, meet Fanua Rimoni
Tokelau-NZ young gun Fanua Rimoni has just signed a two-year deal with the Titans as she nears a breakthrough NRLW debut this season. The rising star details her climb to the professional ranks and the bet that she made on herself, relocating to Australia as a teenager.We also unpack Round 4 in the NRL, which featured a few crazy upsets and a very early reign change at the Sea Ea
Big NRL derbies, Nems' Drua thoughts, R7 Super preview
It's already Round 7 in Super Rugby Pacific and along with previewing the upcoming slate of games, we catch up with Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani to see how it's all going with the Fijian Drua, coming off their tough loss with the Reds.We also review last night's opening to Round 4 in the NRL, where the Roosters proved too strong for the Sea Eagles in Daly Cherry-Evans' return to Brook
NRL R3 review, Super Rugby update, Fotu Auelua's collision insights
Former Brumbies backrower Fotu Auelua now dedicates his time and energy teaching the next generation the art of winning the collision for aspiring League and Union players. He joins us to unpack the on-field art and its importance to success in both codes.The guys also break down the weekend's action across the NRL and Super Rugby Pacific.3:00 - Moment of the Week8:00 - NRL18:30
NRL's GF rematch, Super R6 preview with Sala & Nemz
We preview Friday's huge slate with the Roosters hosting the Panthers and the Storm taking on the Broncos in a rematch of last year's decider. The boys also break down the Sharks clashing with the Dolphins in depth with Sala Togatuki. The Fijian Drua are riding a high and we check in with Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani, plus diagnose how Moana Pasifika can get back on track in Round 6 o
AJ stands alone, Drua win, Eddie Jones' insights
High profile rugby coach Eddie Jones, who is currently in charge of the Japanese Test side, joins to offer stories and insight from across his coaching career, with particular focus on harnessing talent and coaching Pacific heritage players.The boys also celebrate Alex Johnston's heroic record-breaking try-scoring moment, unpack Round 2 in the NRL, dissect the Fijian Drua's big w
NRL R2, Fiji hosts Valetini ton, Sala backs Alex Johnston
After a quick review of Parra's impressive win in Brisbane, we preview the rest of Round 2 in the NRL. The guys also look at this weekend's Super Rugby Pacific action, including superstar Rob Valetini fittingly making his 100th cap as the Drua play host to the Brumbies in Ba. Sala Togatuki is on to chat through some League talking points, including Alex Johnston's shot at try sco
Mose Masoe's mind-blowing outlook on life
Mose Masoe was involved in one of the most frightening incidents ever witnessed on the professional Rugby League stage; not just life-altering, but potentially life shattering. And yet, his approach to the adversity he's had to tackle is nothing short of inspirational. Sam Wykes and Tinirau Arona talk to the former NRL player about the moment he broke his neck in the English Supe
Storm too strong, Rennie joins ABs, Sala's return
The Melbourne Storm in Round 1 is a different beast. That's 24 straight opening round wins for Craig Bellamy's side, unbelievable. The boys break down the Storm's thrashing of the Eels, plus unpack the historic appointment of Dave Rennie at the All Blacks and chat to Sala Togatuki and Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani to preview a huge weekend of footy.
Vegas Wrap, Drua's win, the power of rugby
Dan Millis leads rugby diplomacy and partnership efforts throughout the Pacific region. He joins the show to unpack what Rugby Australia's doing to help strengthen Pacific pathways. Co-hosts Sam Wykes and Tinirau Arona also break down the Fijian Drua's breakthrough Super Rugby Pacific win and the NRL's Vegas weekend.
NRL Vegas preview & Drua deep dive with Nems
The NRL season officially kicks off this Sunday, in Las Vegas. The boys preview the two games, plus offer up some players to watch for season 2026. We also preview Round 3 of the Super Rugby Pacific, and Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani jumps on to detail where things are at with the Fijian Drua.
Davvy Moale's Melbourne sabbatical and the Drua's concerns
Cook Islands Test forward Davvy Moale finds himself in the early stages of a one-year sabbatical at the Melbourne Storm, having ended his time at Souths and signed on with the Sea Eagles from 2027 for three seasons. Ahead of the NRL season's opening weekend, the 22-year-old details his new life away from the Sydney spotlight and under the tutelage of master-coach Craig Bellamy. P
Teti Tela on Fiji's historic Rugby World Cup win over the Wallabies
Teti Tela was there for the early days of the Fijian Drua, helping shape the Super Rugby Pacific team's growth. He was also the starting flyhalf when Fiji produced their historic Rugby World Cup win over the Wallabies in 2023, ending a 69-year drought against Australia. Now retired, Tela details his career highlights, which culminate in a rich rugby legacy.Sam wraps Round 1 of th
Rodney Iona on the rollercoaster Rugby World Cup qualification for Manu Samoa
It wasn't the smoothest qualification path for Manu Samoa from the Islands to America then to Dubai, but the juice was worth the squeeze and they will play at the Rugby World Cup in 2027 in Australia. Rodney Iona rode the rollercoaster through the Pacific Nations Cup, the losses to Chile and the eventual games in Dubai and the victory was equal parts joyous and relief. We hear ab
"I kept my promise": Ryvrr-Lee Alo balances footy, family and culture
With Cook Island, Samoan and Niuean blood, Ryvrr-Lee Alo's rise in the rugby league world has meant some big decisions already for the 19-year-old. Having played for Cook Islands Moana in 2024, Alo caught the eye of Sam & Tinirau during her debut NRLW season in 2025 with the Eels and shares her footy journey, why she decided to represent Fetu Samoa last year and the family su
Miracle Faiilagi's story from "jungle footy" to Moana Pasifika captain
Miracle Faiilagi takes the mantle as the Moana Pasifika leader for season 2026 which caps off his incredible rise from Samoan club rugby to the biggest stage in the world. Sam & Tinirau chat to Faiilagi about what he learned from those early days as a teenager playing against men on the rough field in Vailele, how his family reacted to the captaincy news, why he chose to play
Aidan Toua's rugby union career has led him back home to PNG
Aidan Toua grew up in Port Moresby and after retiring he felt a calling to go back to Papua New Guinea to help young PNG kids change their narrative. For the first show of 2026, Sam & Tinirau chat to Toua about moving to Brisbane as a kid and trying to fit in, overcoming injuries at the start of his career and representing his homeland both on and off the field.We also hear a
Tongan ex-NRL player Will Mataka just won TV reality show 'My Kitchen Rules'
From the pressure cooker environment of the NRL to winning a reality TV cooking show, Tongan Will Mataka has had a crazy journey. Sam & Tinirau hear about his Tongan food influences, how the end of his rugby league career led to being homeless and why the 'My Kitchen Rules' win was a testament to hard work, persistence and family.As well, the boys wrap up a huge 2025 on our f
Ex-Wallaby Sitaleki Timani just debuted for Tonga age 39
Sitaleki Timani had all but retired, but the desire to play for the Ikale Tahi took him back to France and led him to achieve this dream last weekend. We hear why his father's passing at a young age spurred on Timani's drive to achieve success and provide for his family, surprise code switches and debuts and we discover where the T for Tonga symbol with your arms may have origina
Martha Mataele was close to retirement until the NRLW came knocking
Martha Mataele is a dual-code athlete whose journey has been full of ups and downs. Her career in rugby union with the Black Ferns was cut short by a series of serious concussions that left her contemplating medical retirement. But as one door closed, another opened. She found her way to the NRLW, signing with the Eels and proudly representing Tonga at the Pacific Championships.
Teaghan Hartigan is helping pave Fiji's Rugby League World Cup path
Burleigh Bears captain and Fiji Bulikula representative Teaghan Hartigan hops on Nesian Footy to share her journey, from growing up in a footy-strong family to leading her club and country. She reflects on the evolution of the women’s game, the rise of Fiji Bulikula, and what Fiji’s first-ever Rugby League World Cup qualification means for the next generation of players.With no m
Reubenn Rennie is ready to take on the Rugby League World Cup 2026
From France to the Cook Islands, Reubenn Rennie’s rugby league journey has taken a path less travelled, one fuelled by passion and opportunity. Now, after helping the Cook Islands Aitu secure their spot at next year’s Rugby League World Cup, Rennie reflects on his career so far, the pride of representing his heritage, and what’s next for the Kukis.In Tinirau’s favour, the Cook Is
Inside the Tongan camp: Will Hopoate reflects on the Pacific Championships
It’s the final Nesian Footy Friday of the year! Will Hopoate steps in for Tinirau to preview the last Pacific Championships games and reflect on the action inside Tonga’s camp. Sam shares the highs and lows of being a Wallabies fan after their loss to England, and Nemani Nadolo Kuridrani joins straight from training to chat about settling into his new role as Fiji Drua’s Developm
Canberra Raiders' new recruit Roman Tuaimau eyes his big break
The future of rugby league looks bright with rising star Roman Tuaimau, who’s just signed his first major deal with the Canberra Raiders straight out of high school. Tuaimau reflects on the rugby league greats, past and present, who’ve inspired him, and shares how his journey is steadily leading him to the big stage.It’s been another huge week in the Pacific Championships, with T
Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani finds a new purpose with Fiji Drua
Tinirau is back from PNG with some hearty stories from his travels. It’s week three of the Pacific Championships, and Sam’s had enough of hearing “Versace on the Floor” after Tonga’s loss last weekend - he’s hungry for redemption. Plus, Nemani Nadolo-Kuridrani jumps on for the first time as Fiji Drua’s new development coach.
John Wilshere on Papua New Guinea's rising rugby future
PNG Kumuls veteran John Wilshere has witnessed the evolution of the national side, from a decade-long playing career to his current role as team manager. With the Pacific Championships underway and plans for a PNG NRL franchise gaining momentum, Wilshere is optimistic about the future, seeing new opportunities for the next generation of Kumuls and the nation as a whole.Meanwhile,
Pac Champs ramps up and player agent Milan Volavola on Japan rugby and R360
Milan Volavola is a Fijian player agent to Mark Nawaqanitawase, Siua Wong and plenty more stars and joins us today to chat about bringing Pacific culture and values to the agency space. We also hear how R360 could be a positive for players in the Islands and what the new Japanese rugby rules mean for young Pasifika players.As well, it's a bumper weekend of Rugby League in the Pac
Taytana Pati Ah-Cheung surprised herself by making Manusina for the World Cup
Just weeks after giving up Rugby Union to focus on Rugby League, Samoan Taytana Pati Ah-Cheung hopped on a flight to NZ to trial for Manusina. It wasn't long after that she was flying to the UK for the Rugby World Cup and we hear about this incredible story, what it was like at the huge event and just how proud her family was.Tinirau and Sam get stuck into the first four games of
Nesian Footy hits 200 episodes!
200 episodes in and the boys are still loving what they do. Tinirau’s rubbing his hands together with some of the best match-ups in rugby league history as the Pacific Championships kick off this week. Sammy shares his thoughts on the latest R360 news, and the boys give Sala a bit of stick about her pre-season training after a few weeks off, but send her off with love as she gear
