Tonga Football Association successfully concluded the This is How We Football (TIHWF) 2025 program with a one-day community tournament held on Saturday, 13 September. Led by current Mataliki goalkeeper, Grace Tenifa, the program has been instrumental in promoting grassroots football and empowering young players, particularly girls, across Tonga.
Over the course of eight sessions, the program reached five communities ‘Atataa, Ha’ateiho, Nukuhetulu, Navutoka, and Lapaha delivering football training, life skills development, and community-building activities. The final tournament was designed to showcase the lessons learned across the sessions, while also creating a festive atmosphere that celebrated participation and achievement.
A total of 134 participants, including a small number of boys, took part in the event. The day began with a spirited community march, followed by an energetic Zumba session conducted by TIHWF coach Andrew Funaki. Football activities were then organized before the tournament commenced.
The competition featured exciting displays of teamwork and skill, with Ha’ateiho Community crowned champions after defeating Lapaha 1–0 in the final. Navutoka secured third place, Nukuhetulu finished fourth, while ‘Atataa placed fifth.
The success of the program relied heavily on the dedication of community coaches and volunteers who guided participants through all eight sessions. Certificates of recognition were presented to:
- Ha’ateiho: Tilisa Vea & Viliami Taufa
- Navutoka: Filimone Li
- ‘Atataa: Tevita Fonua
- Nukuhetulu: Tangitangi Moala
In addition, TFA volunteers who played a key role in delivering the program were also acknowledged: Andrew Funaki, Meleseini Tufui, Lositika Feke, and Nenasi Tiueti.
Individual excellence was celebrated with player awards following the final. Ha’ateiho’s Donor Tupoumalohi claimed both the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament, while Juanita Kiu, from the Lapaha community earned the Golden Gloves Award.
These young players, alongside their peers, will soon return to represent their clubs, with several showing strong potential to progress into Tonga’s national teams in the near future.
Acknowledgement of Sponsors
The Tonga Football Association sincerely acknowledges the generous contributions of sponsors who made the 2025 program and final tournament possible:
- M&J Water Tank Company
- Vaitohi Enterprises
- Em Jones
- Digicel
- BSP
- Supertech
- Adelaide Tuivailala
- Madison
- Pacific Pizza
The completion of the 2025 This is How We Football program highlights the vital role football plays in community development and youth empowerment in Tonga. With the support of coaches, volunteers, sponsors, and the leadership of Grace Tenifa, the program continues to inspire the next generation of footballers and future national team representatives.
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