Nesian Footy
Nesian Footy
ABC Radio Australia ABC Radio
Tony Puletua made professional rugby league feel possible for Pasifika players
54 minutes Posted Jul 27, 2026 at 5:50 am.
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Show notes
Former NRL and Super League forward Tony Puletua was one of only a handful of Pasifika players competing professionally during his era. As one of just three Pasifika players in Penrith's 2003 premiership-winning side, Puletua became a trailblazer whose journey inspired families within his church community to pursue the same pathways for their children.
On Nesian Footy, Puletua reflects on his journey from local footy to more than 200 first-grade appearances with the Panthers, and the legacy he unknowingly left for the next generation. For Sam and Tinirau, seeing a Pasifika player like Puletua succeed made their own dreams of playing professional rugby league feel within reach.
Shellie Long and Sam reflect on the Fijian Drua's heartbreaking loss to the NSW Waratahs in the Super Rugby Women's Grand Final and what comes next for the side.
Plus, Tinirau reacts to the PNG Chiefs' latest  signing, Zac Lomax, while Sam and Shellie discuss All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu extending his remarkable career after signing with South Africa's Sharks.