It’s often said that sport brings people together and for one week in Tonga, the Australian Defence Force’s (ADF) International Sport Program saw firsthand just how powerful a bat, ball, or whistle can be.

Touching down in Nuku’alofa, the capital of the Kingdom of Tonga, ADF coaches from rugby union, cricket and sports medicine joined members of His Majesty’s Armed Forces (HMAF), the Tongan Police and His Majesty’s Prisons. 

Their mission: deliver accredited coaching courses and help reignite national enthusiasm for the great game of cricket.

Program lead Colonel Richard Watson said the initiative offers something uniquely personal in Australia’s Pacific engagement.

“Australia's role in the Pacific has always been incredibly important both ways. We’ve spent years supporting capacity development, particularly in maritime security. But sport provides something different: a people-to-people connection that’s incredibly powerful,” he said.

ADF rugby union coach Captain Chloe Dray led local personnel through a two-day World Rugby Level 1 coaching course, which was a hit among participants.

“Offering accredited courses up-skills in-house capability and helps set these players up for future success,” Captain Dray said.

“But ultimately, we're all here because we love rugby. Sharing that passion is just as important as the qualifications,” she said. 

Cricket once thrived in Tonga, particularly in the 1970s. Now, ADF coaches Lieutenant Commander Amanda Green and Flight Sergeant Aaron Noffke are helping bring the sport back to life.

Flight Sergeant Noffke said the appetite was immediate. 

“Some participants had never held a bat before, yet they wanted more. More coaching, more kit, and they wanted to bring their kids along. It’s been fantastic,” he said.

'Watching the kids sing their hearts out, I won’t lie, I was crying. Their generosity of spirit is something really special.'

Lieutenant Commander Green said the natural talent was undeniable.

“It’s no surprise Tongans are incredible athletes. Their hand-eye coordination, movement in the field, and the power they generate, it’s stunning, especially for first-time players,” Lieutenant Commander Green said.

With the formal coaching complete, the team visited Faith Wesleyan Primary School in the west and Takuilau College in the east of Tongatapu. They ran games, shared laughs and gifted sports equipment to teachers.

Flight Lieutenant Alissa Bocking said the energy in the schools was contagious.

“The music, the enthusiasm, how eager they were to learn, it was amazing. Some boys even asked me to play netball, which is right up my alley. I’d come back in a heartbeat,” she said.

Corporal Nicole Gusman said the cultural exchange was deeply moving.

“People think we’re here to give to them, but honestly, we get more than we give. Watching the kids sing their hearts out, I won’t lie, I was crying. Their generosity of spirit is something really special,” Corporal Gusman said.

The memories forged between the ADF and Tonga’s security forces will endure long after the final whistle.

“There are so many opportunities ahead to support our Pacific partners,” Colonel Watson said.

“We always respond to national requests, and building these connections is a key part of that journey.”

The ADF International Sports Program is set to continue its Pacific engagement later this year.