In the village of Ha’ateiho, the spirit of volunteerism shines through two remarkable lives, Viliami Taufa and ‘Ofa Filimone whose paths are deeply connected through football and the Just Play Program.
Viliami Taufa is known as a cheerful, talkative, and caring figure in his community. Once a proud national football player, his teenage years were marked by struggles with smoking and alcohol, habits common among youths. His turning point came when he joined the Just Play program more than five years ago. Witnessing young people drop out of school or turning to alcohol motivated him to step up, and he resolved to use football as a safe space to guide them toward brighter futures.
“From what I have seen in my community, many young people are ending up in situations which they should not be facing at such young age. Since becoming involved in football through the Just play program, I have hoped to make change in their lives especially girls. I believe most of them have talent in sport, even if they don’t yet to see it themselves. That is why I decide to step up and bring this program as a safe space for them,” Taufa said.
Currently, Viliami is a coach for the Ha’ateiho Women’s Football Club. His mission goes beyond winning games, as he focuses on encouraging discipline, teamwork, and hope. His proudest achievement has been seeing several of his players represent Tonga at the national level. Beyond the field, he supports his family through farming, reflecting his belief that sport is not just competition but also a pathway to life lessons and opportunity.
Among the young girls Viliami has coached from his football club is ‘Ofa Filimone, a 16- year old whose story reflects resilience and courage. At 15, personal challenges led her to leave school, but she refused to let her circumstances define her. Introduced to football through the Just Play Program at age 13 by Viliami, she was shy and hesitant, yet her tall frame and quiet discipline caught his attention. Encouraged to take on the goalkeeper position, she embraced the challenge despite her fears.
“I remember one day, ‘Ofa came with her friends to train, and I noticed she was shy but disciplined. Seeing her height, I asked if she could try goalkeeper. Though afraid, she accepted the challenge and has continued goalkeeper position for our club and the Mataliki team. I later invited her to volunteer, believing her talent and experience could inspire and guide other children, “coach Viliami said.
Since then, ‘Ofa has represented both the Young and Senior Mataliki teams in Oceania Football Confederation competitions. This year, she stepped into a role as a volunteer with the Just Play, using her experience to inspire children. Her cheerful spirit and growing confidence have made her a role model, proving the age is no barrier to making a difference.
“Joining the Just Play Program helps me build my confidence in volunteering, as I was not someone who had the courage to share or speak in front of others. Since being part of the program, volunteering feels just like playing football, teaching young children lessons that develop them in football and in life too,” ‘Ofa shared.
Together, Viliami and ‘Ofa embody the power of sport to transform lives. Viliami’s laughter and wisdom, paired with ‘Ofa’s youthful energy and courage, show how mentorship and opportunity can reveal hidden potential. Their journeys remind us that true volunteerism is not about titles or recognition, but it is about stepping up, guiding others, and creating safe spaces where talent and dreams can flourish.
