TASANOC workshop a game changer for sports leadership

The Management in Sporting Organisations (MISO) workshop is designed to sharpen sport management skills and governance — both critical in preparing for a busy upcoming sports calendar that includes next year’s Glasgow Commonwealth Games, Youth Olympic Games and Tonga National Games.

Delivered by Oceania Sport Education Program (OSEP) Regional Master Educators Nanette Sass and Kini Karo, and coordinated by Ana Finau Ah Yuk, the training covered board roles, effective meetings, strategic planning, budgeting, sponsorship, marketing, volunteer coordination, and facility management.

Participants came from a cross-section of Tonga’s leading sports, including rowing, table tennis, tennis, outrigger canoe (va’a), NRL, and netball—bringing diverse perspectives and shared commitment to stronger sport governance.

TASANOC CEO and Secretary General Netina Vea said by investing in capacity-building today, Tonga’s sports federations will be well-positioned toachieve excellence on regional and global stages tomorrow.

“This training is key as we prepare for the National Games, Youth Olympic Games and Commonwealth Games in 2026, the Pacific Games in 2027, the Olympics in 2028, and crucially, Tonga hosting the Pacific Games in 2031.”

Participants praised the workshop’s practical and professional delivery.

“The MISO training expanded my understanding of what it takes to lead a successful Federation—planning, communication, marketing with integrity, and strategic thinking,” said Tevita Fa’uhiva of the Tonga Rowing Federation.

Pilimilose Taai of the National Rugby League (NRL) said this was her second OSEP course. Her key take-away from MISO was learning how public relations could help leaders "know your people, know your tribe."

TASANOC continues to use every opportunity to build capacity of National Federations to support and nurture Tongan athletic talent.