Five Samoan Rugby Icons Inducted into the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame

2026-03-26 - 10:44

Five Samoans were among seven inductees into the Pasifika Rugby Hall of Fame. Taufusi Salesa, Ala Bakulich-Leavasa, DJ Forbes, Keven Mealamu and Jerry Collins along with Fiji’s Pio-Bosco Tikoisuva and Tonga’s Fe’ao Vunipola made up the class of 2026. Niumata Derek “DJ” Forbes A true giant of sevens rugby, DJ carried the pride of his Pacific heritage and the mantle of leadership with strength and humility. He captained the All Blacks Sevens from 2006–2015, making a record 89 World Series tournament appearances and playing 512 matches, scoring over 150 tries — the most of any player in World Rugby Sevens Series history. Under his leadership, New Zealand won six World Series titles, Commonwealth Games gold (2010), and the Sevens World Cup (2013). His consistency, work rate and strategic nous set the benchmark for discipline, unity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. ⸻ Lilomaiava Aiolupotea Taufusi Salesa A pillar of Samoan rugby across generations, Lilomaiava served as a standout player and later as a coach who helped shape Samoa’s competitive identity on the world stage. As captain of early Samoan sides and later as coach of the 1993 Hong Kong Sevens winning team, he led Samoa through key milestones in the game’s growth. His leadership from the field to the technical area reflects a legacy built on discipline, faith, and unwavering service to his country and sport. ⸻ Luamanuvao Muliagatele Niuafolau Alaisalatemaota Bakulich‐Leavasa Known affectionately as “Ala,” she is a trailblazer of Pacific women’s rugby, holding the record as Samoa’s most‐capped women’s rugby player with 17 international appearances and competing at three Rugby World Cups (2002, 2006, 2014). A fierce competitor on the world stage and a powerful voice for Manusina, she helped elevate women’s rugby both at home and internationally. Through her leadership and advocacy, she has inspired a new generation of Pasifika women to rise with confidence and strength. ⸻ Maiavatele Keven Mealamu A son of Samoa and a true embodiment of resilience, skill, and heart, Keven stands among the most decorated forwards in rugby union history. As an All Black hooker from 2002–2015, he earned 132 test caps and scored 60 international points, becoming one of the most capped players in All Blacks history. He played 164 Super Rugby games for the Blues, and was integral to New Zealand’s 2011 and 2015 Rugby World Cup triumphs. His leadership, loyalty, and Pacific pride extended beyond the field, mentoring and inspiring generations of Pasifika talent. ⸻ Jerry Collins A warrior in black, born in Samoa and raised in Porirua, Jerry’s ferocious tackling, intensity and unwavering commitment made him one of the most feared and respected loose forwards of his era. Earning 48 caps for the All Blacks, he dominated at both club and international levels with his physicality, leadership and competitive ferocity. His induction celebrates an extraordinary journey, unmatched courage and a lasting contribution to Pasifika rugby and communities.