Champions of the Pacific RNZ News

A weekly show celebrating the best of Pacific Island sport. 

From representing Samoa on the football field to becoming FIFA's first chief women's football officer. Sarai Bareman is on a mission to put women front and centre of the football world stage. The former Samoa representative tells us how a holiday in Samoa set her on the path for a career in the sport, and her dreams for women's football in the Pacific.

Pacific nations are gearing up for a boost after World Rugby decided that players will be allowed to switch national teams from next year. 
Prior to the new change, once a player had represented a country at international level, they couldn't turn out for another - unless they utilised an unintended sevens loophole.
We talk to Manu Samoa coach Seilala Mapusua, 'Ikale Tahi coach Toutai Kefu, and a former All Black who says he's ready to represent his Pacific heritage. 

A weekly show that talks to the stars and unsung heroes of Pacific Island sport.

It's no secret that Fiji is packed with sporting talent. All over the world Fijians can be found running, jumping, tackling and shooting with the best of the best. 
But when it comes to roles off the field, particularly in the nation's more popular sports, it's overseas coaches and administrators that dominate leading roles. 
Sainimili Saukuru tells us what she's doing to see more locals leading the way.  

Sosaia Tulikihakau is one of the few Pasifika football referees in Aotearoa.
The 21-year-old has been recognised by the community as a champion for diversity and inclusion in football, selected as a finalist for the Counties Manukau Sporting excellence awards for Referee of the Year. 
We talk to Sosaia about his football journey and his hopes to see more Pasifika in the game.