ABSTRACT
Rugby is a highly valued cultural commodity in indigenous societies across the Pacific, and there are few elite competitions and national sides that are not without Pasifika players. However, after leaving behind the familiarity of home and the sociocultural and spiritual support within, many athletes struggle with various welfare and well-being challenges. For Pasifika rugby athletes, spirituality is often ignored as a central component of player welfare. This chapter draws upon empirical evidence gathered in Fiji, Samoa, and Australia to examine athletes’ spiritual well-being. The findings indicate many Pasifika rugby footballers value spirituality and look ‘heavenward’ for assistance as part of player welfare. Drawing on observations and discussions conducted with, and alongside, budding professionals in the Pacific islands, and those that have ‘made it’ in Australia, we discuss the obstacles to player welfare inherent in these transitions, along with strategies and support mechanisms, or lack thereof, in place as a response.
