Moana Pasifika is gearing up for an exciting 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season, marked by significant leadership changes, strategic pre-season preparations, and a robust match schedule.
Leadership and Team Developments
In a landmark move, All Blacks veteran Ardie Savea has been appointed as the captain for the 2025 season. Savea, who boasts 91 Test caps and a decade-long tenure with the Hurricanes, expressed his enthusiasm about leading Moana Pasifika, emphasising his commitment to setting high standards both on and off the field.
Head Coach Fa'alogo Tana Umaga has assembled a formidable coaching team, including Assistant Coach Tom Coventry, Backs Coach Stephen Jones, Scrum Coach Pauliasi Manu, Defence Coach Alando Soakai, and Skills Coach Seilala Mapusua. This diverse coaching lineup aims to enhance the team's performance and competitiveness in the upcoming season.
Pre-Season Preparations
Moana Pasifika concluded their pre-season with a challenging match against the Gallagher Chiefs at Navigation Homes Stadium in Pukekohe. This game was particularly significant as it marked Ardie Savea's debut in Moana Pasifika colours. The team utilised this opportunity to fine-tune their strategies ahead of their two-week tour in Australia, which will kick off their Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
2025 Season Fixture Highlights
The 2025 season presents a series of compelling matches for Moana Pasifika:
February 15: Season opener against the Western Force at HBF Park, Perth, kicking off at 9:35 PM NZST.
February 21: Clash with the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, at 8:35 PM NZST.
February 28: First home game facing the Highlanders at North Harbour Stadium, Auckland, starting at 7:05 PM NZST.
March 21: A historic encounter with the Chiefs at Teufaiva Stadium in Nuku'alofa, Tonga, commencing at 7:05 PM NZST.
April 19: Hosting the ACT Brumbies at Navigation Homes Stadium, Pukekohe, at 1:05 PM NZST.
The full fixture list is available on the official Moana Pasifika website.
Looking Ahead
With a blend of seasoned leadership, strategic coaching appointments, and a rigorous pre-season regimen, Moana Pasifika is poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season. Fans and supporters eagerly anticipate a year of competitive and spirited rugby from the team.
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