Hiko Fungavaka was awarded Life Membership of the Oceania Hockey Federation (OHF) in November 2025, recognising his exceptional contribution to the development of hockey in Tonga and across the Pacific.
Hiko’s journey with OHF began in 2004 when he facilitated Tonga’s first Olympic Solidarity Hockey Coaching Course, where he met Continental Development Officer Gill Gemming for the first time. His passion for the sport grew steadily, and in 2016, he made history as OHF’s first Pacific Island Hockey Development Officer.
Before taking on the regional role, Hiko served as Sport Development Officer for the Tonga Olympic Committee (TASANOC) and was elected to its Board. His expertise in Olympic Solidarity grants helped Tonga Hockey Federation secure annual funding for equipment, coaching and umpiring workshops, and team travel to OHF events. His leadership extended beyond hockey—Hiko was appointed Chef de Mission for Tonga’s national team at the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands, a role he managed with distinction while still supporting Tonga Hockey from the bench.
In 2015, Hiko expressed his vision to grow hockey beyond its traditional base of girls and women, expanding opportunities for boys, men, and people with disabilities. He became the first Pacific Island Development Officer to work regularly with athletes with disabilities, championing inclusivity in the sport.
Hiko’s grassroots efforts have left a lasting legacy. He introduced hockey to kindergartens, primary and secondary schools, using national players as role models to inspire young athletes and develop leadership skills. As an OSEP Master Educator, he facilitated numerous coaching and umpiring courses and initiated teacher workshops to ensure hockey remained active in schools.
His strong relationships with TASANOC, government ministries, and other agencies elevated hockey from a minority sport to a recognised activity in Tonga’s sporting landscape. Hiko also played a pivotal role in securing funding for Tongan teams to compete in major events, including four Pacific Games, the FIH World League Series, a Youth Olympic Games Qualifier, and three Oceania Cup Hockey 5s tournaments.
Through dedication and persistence, Hiko overcame challenges to ensure Tonga Hockey reached its potential, transforming it into a growing force in Oceania. His Life Membership award is a fitting tribute to a career defined by vision, commitment, and service.
The award comes as Fungavaka battles serious health issues that have left him bedridden.
His son, Pitikeni Fungavaka, told Kaniva News that while awaiting CT scan results from Vaiola Hospital, he suspected his father may be suffering from some form of cancer.
