25/08/2026
Fantastic to see Buka Rugby League back in action!
Monday 24th August 2026
HAGO EAGLES PROUD HISTORY
The Hago Eagles Rugby League Club remains one of Bougainville’s proudest sporting institutions.
Born in 1992 from the old Hago Rebels, the Eagles were founded by John Kolan, Bruno Tsigoto, Tsirikou Thomas and Balerie Holi.
Their rise was backed by sponsors like Rhams Fast Food, Hakena Corporation and Poloana, with new support from the William A. Nakin Foundation, Hon. Robert Hamal Sawa, Hatakui and Buka Eagles.
Historic highlights include the 1992 clean sweep grand final, when Hago won all five grades, and the 1995 thriller against the Warriors, sealed by a last‑minute field goal. Players such as
Valarian Hakaria and Wenceslaus Soatsin even went on to wear the Kumul jersey.
Now, under President Ignatius Hamal, the Eagles are preparing to launch a health and wellbeing program after this season. It will include children, youth, women and leaders of Hagogohe Constituency.
As the flagship of Hagogohe, the club says it is more than just a team — it is a family and a united force for change.
One other aspect of the club is generating its own income through merchandise.
Leaders say this drive will go a long way in realizing the aspiration to be self‑reliant.
The Eagles say they are committed to working with community government and chiefs through sports, church programs and other services to promote peace, security and law‑abiding citizens.
The story of the Hago Eagles is one of resilience, community, and a passion for rugby league that refuses to fade.
*NBC Bougainville News
