Cook Islands Rugby Union (CIRU) is proud to induct several remarkable individuals and a historic team into its Hall of Fame, recognising their exceptional contributions to rugby and the nation over the past 30 to 50 years.

Among the honourees are George George Brian Williamson, Tekaotiki Matapo, and the 1971 Cook Islands 15s team. They will be inducted during the CIRU Awards Night to be held at the Aroa Nui Hall in Arorangi tonight.

George George: A rugby legend

Born in 1957 on the island of Aitutaki and later raised in Nikao, George George Brian Williamson, known as George George, has made a significant impact on Cook Islands rugby. As a player, coach, and administrator in both the 7s and 15s formats, George’s career has been marked by dedication and leadership.

George began his rugby journey with the Avatiu club and quickly rose to prominence, earning a spot on the national team. In 1980, he was selected for the Cook Islands 15s team's starting lineup against Italy in Rarotonga; however, an injury on the day of the match prevented him from playing. Despite this setback, George continued to excel, playing a key role in the 1983 Cook Islands 15s team at the South Pacific Games in Samoa and captaining the team to a gold medal at the 1985 Mini South Pacific Games in Rarotonga.

In 1987, George led the Cook Islands team to a silver medal at the South Pacific Games in New Caledonia. He later became a coach, leading the Cook Islands 7s team at the Samoa Marist 7s Tournament in 1990 and the 15s team against the New Zealand Maori in 1992. From 1998 to 2004, George coached the Cook Islands 7s team in several major tournaments, including the Commonwealth Games in Kuala Lumpur and various International Rugby Board (IRB) 7s tournaments.

Between 2008 and 2012, George served as team attaché or chef de mission for Cook Islands teams at the Olympics in Beijing and London, the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi, and the South Pacific Games in New Caledonia. For his outstanding services to the community and public service, George was awarded the Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2022. He continues to be actively involved in the community, promoting men's health and serving as a member of the Mongoose Golden Oldies Rugby Team.

Tekaotiki Matapo: A towering figure

Tekaotiki Matapo, born in 1944 in Rarotonga, is celebrated for his contributions to Cook Islands rugby and his service to the community. Known for his athleticism and leadership, Matapo captained the Cook Islands 15s team to several notable victories.

Matapo began his rugby career with Titikaveka and quickly established himself as a formidable player. In 1980, he captained the Cook Islands 15s team to a historic 15-6 victory over Italy in Rarotonga. He continued to lead the team at the 1983 South Pacific Games in Samoa and was a key member of the 1985 gold medal-winning team at the Mini South Pacific Games in Rarotonga. He retired from rugby that same year at the age of 41.

Beyond rugby, Matapo served his country as a police inspector, politician, Cabinet Minister, diplomat, and president of the Cook Islands Sports and National Olympic Committee (CISNOC).

In recognition of his service, he was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2022. Today, we honour Papa Tiki for his significant contributions to Cook Islands rugby and his dedication to the nation.

1971 Cook Islands 15s team

The 1971 Cook Islands 15s team holds a special place in the history of Cook Islands rugby as the first team to represent the nation internationally. This team travelled by boat to the South Pacific Games in Tahiti, where they played a challenging match against Samoa, narrowly losing 18-24 to secure a silver medal.

Today, CIRU honours the pioneering spirit of the 1971 team, who laid the foundation for Cook Islands rugby on the international stage.

Among the surviving members living in Rarotonga are Bob Estall, Charlie Strickland, Nee Vaiimene, Archer Hosking, John Maoate, Joe Manual, Amene Rangi, Anau Manarangi, Isaiah Isaiah (Willie), Richard Browne, Piu Poaru, Moana Piri, and Tione Paara (George Maoate). Their dedication and passion for the sport have inspired many players and fans.

We also remember those team members who are either living overseas or have passed away, including William Hosking, Ngatokorua Takau, Geoffrey Heather, Joe Cowan, Rouru Matapo, Moeauri Raea, Neeti Povaru, Pare Rongokea, Ngatoa John, Mata Takairangi, Joe Browne, John Best, Tom Kopa, Purua Tupungaia, and head coach Takai Toka.

• Solomone Taukei/CIRU