Success demonstrates Polynesian benefits, say coaches

Woy Woy Rugby Union Club's recent successes have demonstrated the enormous benefits of welcoming Polynesian recruits to the sport, according to the club's coaches.

Co-coaches Paul Gooley and Carl Von Kotze said Woy Woy was lucky to have Sione Ofahengaue, the younger brother of Willi.

Sione has been called a guiding hand to the Tongan connection at Woy Woy Rugby Union Club.

That Tongan connection included back-rowers Feleti Atiola, Chris Paseka and mecurial half back Sione Toki.

All have had considerable representative experience.

Five eighth Fokolulu Taumololo makes up a combination of back-row and halves as talented as any in the district, according to the coaches.

"It was not so long ago that just the occasional Polynesian player found a place in Rugby teams across Australia," Mr Gooley said.

"In the 1990s, a few first grade clubs had regular players but there was only one Polynesian player in the 95 World Cup, Willi O, and one in the 99 World Cup, Toutai Kefu," he said.

Times have changed significantly.

Australia's 2015 World Cup squad of 31 had no fewer than 10 Polynesians players.

This ratio of 33 per cent is even greater in club and minor representative teams, closer to 40 per cent.

"The reason is obvious.

"They have strength, pace and explosive qualities that make them natural Rugby players but the greatest asset of all is their passion for the game they grow up with.

"Still you hear people saying that too many are not good for a team or a club."

Woy Woy is not among the detractors.

Gooley and Von Kotze said they have great rapport with the Polynesian players at the club.

"They love the game and are willing to play anywhere on the pitch.

"There is no point trying to limit their exuberance so you have to go along with it.

"Yes, you have your heart in your mouth sometimes but they score tries from anywhere and always believe they can win.

"There is never a dull moment and they have no trouble putting their bodies on the line.

"Show me the non-Polynesian boys who are as keen to play.

"We don't hear the Polynesian lads say they would rather surf than play seven-a-side in 35 degree heat.

"They've helped lift our profile enormously.

"We've now got juniors coming through the grades excited to pay alongside them."

Article, 16 Feb 2016

Peter Fenton, Woy Woy Rugby Union