Tipiloma Faletau, a 35-year-old woman hailing from the village of Okoa Vava’u. Others know her as Tipi for short.
She is employed full-time by the Vava’u Football Association in the role of a cleaner. Apart from her role as a cleaner, she also volunteers for the Just Play program. She began her journey with the program as a volunteer back in 2012. After that, she took a three-year break for fruit picking in Australia.
Tipi returned in 2014 and continued her volunteering in the program from 2015 to 2024. Before being recognized as one of the volunteers, she spent a lot of her time coaching her niece, Tama’a, who loves football more than anything. Tipi never missed a single day assisting her niece in pursuing her passion for football.
“My niece has developed a deep passion for football as she has grown up. She would visit me daily, asking for my assistance with teaching some of the basic skills of football. Although I lacked coaching experience at the time, I did my best to support her. I had observed her strong passion for the sport,
“She often spoke of her dream to excel as a player and secure a spot on Tonga’s football team. Nonetheless, she has now become one of Tonga’s national football players, participating in both 11-aside and futsal. I am incredibly proud to witness all of her achievements,” she said.
Faletau recalled about a time when there was a football competition held for children U12 mix teams. She made the decision to gather children from her village, forming a team to participate in the tournament. She believed that this would provide an opportunity for the children in her community to highlight their talents and potential in football.
Even though it was their first time participating in football competitions, they managed to win thanks to their talented players. The Vava’u Football Association staffs for her dedication and outstanding community work acknowledged Tipi. As a result, she was invited to take part in various football programs, one of which involves volunteering for the Just Play program.
“I am appreciative of the chance to enhance my understanding of football through the guidance of trainers, coaches, and colleagues involved in this program. It is a constant reminder for me that children are my top priority, ensuring they feel secure to participate and confident in showing their football skills,”
“During school visits, I am always prepared and eagerly looking forward to delivering the program. Although working with children is not easy, I always reflect on one of the session themes – MY ROLES. As a volunteer, I must acknowledge that I will be working together with participants from diverse backgrounds. I consider these children as my own,”
“I need to be their primary supporter and the first person they turn to if they ever feel unsafe. I strive to foster a football family that is both safe and inclusive,” she kindly explained.
She is a dependable and trustworthy volunteer, ideal for working with children. Tipi considers her cleaner and volunteer job a true blessing. Tipi had the opportunity to work with children from different backgrounds, assisting them in building confidence and creating pathways for their future.
