The Pasifika Players Advisory Group have extended their support for the game’s Indigenous players and staff by releasing a statement to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land.
Understanding culture and history are important factors in both Indigenous and Pasifika stories and the group stands in support of the values and traditions our First Nations people add to the game.
“As we lead into Indigenous Round, on behalf of the Pasifika Players Advisory Group and by extension all Māori and Pasifika players across the game, we acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land in which we are fortunate enough to play rugby league,” Advisory Group member James Tamou said.
“The deep connections that our Indigenous players have to the land, culture and history is something we value, cherish and celebrate and we're proud to support our fellow Indigenous family in this, and every round of the NRL and NRLW Telstra Premiership.”
With over 50 percent of the game’s players from an Indigenous, Māori or Pasifika background, this round’s celebration of culture and history is one that many players across our game will be looking forward to embracing.
“Our First Nations people have pathed the way for us through sacred culture, land, identity and spirituality,” said NRL Pasifika Program Lead David Solomona.
“It is only fitting we support, stand up and embrace these shared contributions.”
The Pasifika Players Advisory Group was established to ensure the views of Pasifika and Māori people are incorporated across the wellbeing and education space of the NRL and NRLW competitions.
Visit here to learn more about the advisory groups.