Moana Pasifika not only takes the fight to the giants on the field but also battles for territory and economic survival off the field.
In an interview with RNZ, Moana Pasifika boss Pelenato Sakaria stated that while the aspiration exists for Moana Pasifika to be based in the Pacific, practical challenges must be addressed first. Hosting a professional Super Rugby franchise requires significant medical infrastructure, including access to MRIs, radiologists, and specialist sports physicians. Tonga and Samoa currently lack these resources due to their smaller populations of 100,000 and 250,000 respectively.
Fiji, with nearly a million people, only just meets the minimum requirements to support a Super Rugby team. Until the necessary infrastructure is developed in Tonga and Samoa, it's not feasible to base the franchise there. However, Moana Pasifika aims to bring games to these home nations when economically viable, while remaining focused on their current base for the foreseeable future.
The empty seats at stadiums don't help Moana Pasifika, as they need entry fees to support their finances.
With three weeks left in the regular season, Moana Pasifika is not only competing for a spot in the finals but also fighting for its future in Super Rugby Pacific. The team has faced challenges, finishing last in their first two seasons and playing without a consistent home base in 2024 due to safety concerns at North Harbour Stadium. Coach Tana Umaga emphasises the importance of Moana Pasifika's survival for Samoa and Tonga, highlighting the need for collective discussions and support from World Rugby. Despite the instability, Umaga is hopeful about taking more games to the islands, inspired by the passionate support seen during their historic match in Tonga this year.
Umaga acknowledges the success of the Fijian Drua as a template for Pacific rugby franchises, noting the importance of having proper structures in place. Despite off-field challenges, Moana Pasifika remains focused on securing a top-eight finish for the first time. Umaga is determined to push through and ensure the team remains a crucial part of the Pacific rugby landscape. Looking ahead to their match against the Hurricanes, Umaga is inspired by the confidence and controlled play of his former team and believes Moana Pasifika can still make a significant impact this season.
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