It has been revealed that the ‘Ikale Tahi team players have not been given any allowance since the beginning of their PNC tournament 2013.
Tonga coach Mana ‘Otai made an emotional appeal this morning June 20 on Facebook saying, “I am writing to ask for your help in trying to compensate the players for their love, commitment and sacrifices both on and off the field to serve our God and Tonga on this platform”.
‘Otai says the players “have not been paid anything except for donations received from USA Tongans”.
There were 32 players called for the ‘Ikale Tahi team during the PNC tournament and the increased number has been due to injuries and suspensions made against the team, he says.
“They normally have a player allowance of $1,000 pa'anga a week and this is nothing compared to what our Pacific neighbours give their players,” ‘Otai says.
“We are doing a '' A $1.00 per person" donation to help the players with their allowance and we ask for your generosity.
"The players have an account with ANZ Tonga named : 'Ikale Tahi Players' Association: The account number is: 1793372 and please use your name as reference. Western Union and Melie mei Langi do transfers from throughout the world.
The Trustees/Signatories are myself and two players for check and balances. Your donations is for the players only and a full report will be released on how much, received and distributed to players”.
